Serve and return happens throughout the day. Your child may point to something, ask a question, show you a toy, make a sound, or tell you a story. Each time you respond, you create an opportunity for your child to communicate back.
These back-and-forth interactions help children learn how conversations work. They also give children practice expressing themselves, listening, taking turns, and responding to others.
Ways to practice serve and return:
- Notice what your child is interested in.
- Respond to their words, sounds, gestures, or facial expressions.
- Give them time to respond before asking another question.
- Take turns talking and listening.
- Add words or details to what your child says.
- Ask questions that encourage them to keep talking.
- Show interest in what they are sharing.
For example, if your child says, “Look at my car!” you might respond, “I see it! It’s going really fast.” Your child may then add, “It’s going to the store!” and the conversation continues.
These simple exchanges can happen while playing, eating, getting ready, riding in the car, or walking outside. You don't need a structured activity—the interaction itself is the opportunity to practice communication.