Simple Routines to Elicit “Mama” and “Dada” in Early Intervention

Hey SLP friends! 👋🏼

If you've spent even a little time in Early Intervention, you've likely met a parent who's laser-focused on one big goal: getting their child to say “mama” or “dada.” And honestly, who can blame them? As a mom myself, I completely understand the desire to hear those sweet little voices say your name.

As speech-language pathologists, we know that getting to those first words takes more than just hope—it takes intentional, repeated exposure in ways that feel natural for both the child and the parent. That’s why I love sharing simple, easy-to-use routines that families can fold into their everyday lives.

So today, I’m sharing a few favorite routines that make targeting “mama” and “dada” both fun and effective!

💡 Why Routines Work

Kids thrive on repetition, especially our little ones in Early Intervention. When we build vocabulary into predictable, everyday routines, we’re giving children tons of natural opportunities to hear and practice key words. Plus, these routines are easy for caregivers to remember, which increases the chances they'll actually use them consistently.

Let’s dive into a few ideas!

☀️ 1. Morning Wake-Up Song

Start the day with a simple, silly song! Singing helps draw attention to the target words and builds a predictable pattern.

Try this:
“Good morning, good morning, mama’s here for you!
Good morning, good morning, dada loves you too!”

Encourage parents to use big gestures like waving, clapping, or even tickling to keep their child engaged. Repeat it every morning to help the words become familiar and meaningful.

🍽️ 2. Mealtime Naming Game

Mealtime is packed with opportunities for language! Encourage parents to label themselves during meals and involve their child in the process.

Example phrases:

• “Mama’s eating apples!”

• “Dada’s drinking juice!”

• “What’s [child’s name] eating?”

This routine not only introduces new vocabulary but also connects “mama” and “dada” to a fun and familiar setting.

🧸 3. People Play Routines

Turn playtime into a language-rich experience by labeling who's doing what. Bonus: kids love when grown-ups join in on their play!

How it works:

• Parent hands over a toy while saying, “Dada has the truck!”

• Then prompts, “Give it to mama!” or “Where’s dada’s ball?”

These quick exchanges naturally build turn-taking and reinforce “mama” and “dada” through playful interaction.

🌙 4. Bedtime Snuggle Routine

End the day with some warm, cozy language! Bedtime routines are already repetitive and soothing, making them perfect for language modeling.

Try something like:

• “Mama loves you—night-night!”

• “Dada gives big hugs—sleep tight!”

Pairing words with actions like hugs, rocking, or a gentle back pat helps kids connect the words with comfort and safety.

These routines aren’t just easy—they’re effective. They use repetition, emotion, and real-life context to build meaning around the words “mama” and “dada.” Best of all, they don’t require any fancy toys or materials—just a willing caregiver and a little creativity.

If you’re coaching parents, start small. Pick one routine and practice it daily. Once it feels natural, layer in more. Remind caregivers that consistency is key, and that their efforts really do make a difference.

Because when that magical first “mama” or “dada” finally happens, it’s not just a milestone—it’s a celebration of connection, love, and all the work it took to get there.

Want even more guided support and learning when it comes to Early Intervention? Be sure to check out my Early Intervention Course where I teach you what you need to know to feel confident in supporting those birth-three year old clients and families! 

>> CLICK HERE TO GET ALL THE COURSE INFO 🧸 <<

You've got this, SLPs! 💬✨

Happy speeching!

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