Can you always understand what your young child is trying to say?
Do they express their ideas clearly? Can they explain what happened at school, share a story, or tell you how they feel in a way that makes sense?
At ages 5 to 7, whether in Kindergarten, Grade 1, or Grade 2, your child is developing the foundation for lifelong communication. Now is the perfect time to support those skills with fun, intentional practice.
Below are some of the key oral communication milestones for this age group, plus ideas you can try at home to help build strong speaking habits, storytelling skills, and expressive vocabulary.
What Communication Skills Should 5 to 7-Year-Olds Have?
- Speak clearly using most vowel and consonant sounds correctly (Though some difficulty with “l,” “r,” “s,” and “th” is still normal, especially if teeth are missing!)
- Use complete sentences and switch between past, present, and future tense appropriately
- Use correct pronouns like he, she, they, we
- Understand the basics of a conversation: how to greet someone, ask and answer questions, take turns, and use details to explain
- Make choices and express simple decisions, even if their reasoning isn’t always perfect
- Expand vocabulary by learning and using new words through daily experiences
- Add descriptive details (colour, size, movement) when talking about objects or stories
- Begin basic problem-solving and decision-making
- Enjoy retelling stories or sharing personal experiences, even if the structure is a bit jumbled
- Engage in creative drama, pretending, or storytelling through play
- articipate in discussions about books and characters, building early comprehension concepts like plot, setting, and sequence
Yes, Young Children Can Be Public Speakers Too!
- Standing in front of an audience (even the family!)
- Speaking loudly and clearly
- Staying focused on a single familiar topic like “My Pet” or “My Favourite Toy”
How to Support Communication at Home
- Model clear speech: Don’t rush, mumble, or trail off at the end of sentences
- Use descriptive language: “That dinosaur is enormous!” instead of “That’s a big one!”
- Explain new words as you use them
- Encourage choices: Ask your child to make decisions and explain their reasons
- Practice storytelling and dramatic play: Take turns telling stories, acting them out, or inventing your own
- Invite your child to lead: Have them give instructions for a game or explain how to make a snack
Want to Take It Further?
- Clear speech
- Social communication
- Listening and turn-taking
- Vocabulary development
- Storytelling and discussion
- Beginner speech-making
Until then, make oral communication part of your family’s daily rhythm. You’ll be surprised how quickly your child’s confidence, clarity, and expressive language begin to grow.
For more ideas and support, check out the Resources section of this site!
