Communicate using Bubbles
These activities are designed for children not yet using words who are at the stage of pointing, reaching
or vocalising to ask for things.
These ideas can be used to encourage your child to try words rather than just pointing to make a
request:
Keep things out of reach- Try keeping bubbles or other toys in sight but out of reach – for
example on a shelf. When your child points or reaches for it, name it for them, and wait so they can
respond. If the child can’t say the word they might point, make eye contact, or sounds etc.
Choices- When it’s time to play give your child a choice e.g. “bubbles or ball?” – even if you know
what their favourite is.
More- use bubbles to model use of the word “more”. Blow some bubbles for your child, they will soon
all pop and your child will probably reach for the bottle to ask for more – make sure you keep hold of the
bottle! Sign and say ‘more’ and wait for a response. Accept any attempt at the word for example ‘mm’.
The aim isn’t to get the word perfect at first, but for your child to realise they need to try to use words to
communicate what they want not just pointing or making sounds. Praise them and repeat the word –e.g.
“good boy, more!” then blow the bubbles immediately.
Talk about it- use the bubbles as a chance to model a wider range of language, for example
“popping bubbles”; “pop, pop, pop!”; “bubbles are floating” “lots of bubbles”; “bubbles on the floor!”
Take turns- if your child is able to blow bubbles, give them a turn and say “Charlotte’s turn”. Once
they have had a turn, bring the bubble wand close to your mouth, say “mummy/daddy’s turn” and blow
some bubbles immediately. Say “Charlotte’s turn” while moving the bubble wand towards your child for
them to take their next turn.
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BCHC SLT April 2016