Monkey See Monkey Do!
Updated: Aug 25
In this article we will discuss:
Before you get your toddler to SAY what you want them to say, you need to get them to DO what you want them to do.
Imitation - when a child copies what they see people do or hear people say - helps them learn many new skills. Kids will watch parents and caregivers and then try it out. This is how language develops as well.
While here we are talking about getting a child to imitate what we say, parents should know that imitation does not start with words. It starts with facial expressions (smiling at parents) simple movement (reaching or pointing like mom does), or even holding objects like they see parents do (holding and drinking from the bottle).
By 12 months, babies learn to stack blocks because you showed them how. And around the same age they are waving and pointing because they saw you do it.
As toddlers, they watch you during everyday activities - cooking with all of those pots and pans, using the vacuum cleaner, and walking the dog. Suddenly you notice them imitating these actions. They want a turn with the vacuum cleaner and before you know it, they've taken all of the pots and pans out of the cabinet to cook dinner.
Toddlers also imitate your words. It's how they learn to talk. They hear you do it. But as you see, imitation of words has a precursor - imitation of actions. Kids do that first. So when a child is not imitating your actions, they are not ready to imitate sounds or words.
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Imitation is Important
Imitation is a crucial skill. Studies have shown that body movement imitation is predictive of later social communication and language skills. Meaning, when kids don't imitate body movements as young kids, it could predict a later problem with verbal language or social communication.
How to Get Your Child Imitating
Speech therapists know they have to make imitation fun. We can't just ask a child to "jump like I do" or "clap when I clap." They have to make it fun!
So here are a few books we recommend parents use when they participate in our parent coaching program for toddlers at Better Speech for getting your wiggly toddler imitating what you are doing. In a toddler approved FUN way!
Flora and the Flamingo: One of our favorites for 2 reasons. First, it's a wordless picture book - so you don't even have to try to ignore the words, there are none! And second, the main character Flora is always imitating the flamingo’s poses. When we show parents how to use the book, we tell them to get off the couch and imitate the flamingo as well.
Bonus, if your child happens not to like flamingos, Flora likes to hang out with penguins and ostriches as well.
From Head to Toe: Comes as a board book so it's great for young toddlers who still try to chew their books on occasion.
This book gets kids imitating fast because they text invites them to imitate the animal's movements very directly. Parents, don't just ask your child to make the movement, get on the floor and do it with them!
It's a Tiger: The main character runs into (and away from) a tiger over and over again as the plot gets sillier and sillier. So it's perfect for acting out while reading. Kids will get to act out running, climbing, and tiptoeing over snakes!
As a bonus, the text includes short repetitive sentences ("it's a tiger!") so you can encourage your child to say the word. How? After they get to know and love the book, say "it's a...." and wait expectantly for any communication attempt (not just the word "tiger"). Give your child lots of praise!
At Better Speech, we offer online speech therapy services convenient for you and tailored to your child's individual needs. Our services are affordable and effective - get Better Speech now.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should toddlers start imitating sounds and actions?
Most toddlers begin imitating sounds, facial expressions, and simple gestures between 8 and 12 months, with word imitation picking up between 12 and 18 months. If your child is not copying sounds or simple words by 18 months, it is worth checking in with a speech-language pathologist. Early imitation is one of the strongest building blocks for language development.
How can I use everyday play to encourage my toddler to imitate speech?
Simple, repetitive play is your best tool. Try animal sounds during storytime, narrate what you are doing during daily routines, and pause after you speak to give your child space to copy you. Keeping your face at your child's eye level and exaggerating your expressions makes imitation more inviting and fun for little learners.
What is the difference between imitation and echolalia, and should I be concerned?
Imitation is when a child copies a word or phrase in a meaningful, back-and-forth way, while echolalia is the repetition of words or phrases with little apparent communicative intent. Some echolalia is normal in toddlers up to about age three. If repetition seems excessive or your child rarely uses spontaneous, original language, a licensed speech-language pathologist can help clarify what is typical for your child's age.
My toddler watches me closely but never tries to copy my words. What could be going on?
A child who observes but does not attempt to imitate may be processing language differently, experiencing a delay in expressive speech, or working through motor speech challenges. This pattern is worth discussing with a professional sooner rather than later. Better Speech connects families with licensed, insurance-ready speech-language pathologists online, with no waitlists, so you can get answers and support quickly.
Can speech therapy really make a difference for a toddler who struggles with imitation?
Yes, research consistently shows that early intervention leads to significantly better outcomes for children with speech and language delays. Therapists use play-based imitation strategies tailored to each child's interests and developmental stage. Starting therapy during the toddler years, when the brain is at its most adaptable, gives children the strongest possible foundation for communication skills that will carry them through life.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
