What is Semantic Knowledge? Why is it important?

Semantic Knowledge is the aspect of language that involves word meaning and word labels. This is important as it widens your child’s vocabulary.

Tips for Parents: How can I reinforce Semantic Knowledge at home?

-Correct overextension of words
-Draw attention to new vocabulary words and give them meaning
-Label things in their environment throughout the day
-Choose books with one theme so that children can learn vocabulary that all fall in a particular category
-Play synonyms games by asking “what is another word for ______”
-Make a word web so they can see connections between words

Books & Activities:

Infant/ toddler:

1. Very Hungry Caterpillar
2. Goodnight Moon
3. Oh, Baby! Go, Baby!

• Talk about the objects you see. What are they doing, thinking, saying?
• Label words by pointing and saying “Moon” or “Brush”
• Ask them to point out the _(insert object)_ in the book.
• App: My first 101 words. Uses videos to teach new words.

Preschool:

1. Use your words, Sophie!
2. No, David!
3. My Truck Is Stuck

• Work on giving objects more than one name. So instead of calling all things with wheels cars, introduce Van, or Truck.
• Create sticky notes with characters, animals or objects on them. Have them place the word with the correct picture.
• Have your child draw and label objects from the text.

Kindergarten:

1. Stellaluna
2. The Rainbow Fish
3. If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

• Go to the aquarium, have your child describe the animals they see.
• Explore items in your pantry. Find and label things the mouse asked for.
• Download the App: Futaba. Fun game that Helps children learn new words.

Primary Age:

1. The Stinky Cheese Man
2. Where the Wild Things Are
3. The Roly-Poly Spider

• Create a synonym/antonym chart
• Clarify words they may not know by relating them to objects they do know. For example, supper is another word for dinner, or meal.
• Multiple Meaning Cones