From “Screech!” to “More Please”: Building Infant and Toddler Communication Skills to Spark Learning, Foster Calm, and Ease Difficult Moments by Raelene Ostberg

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by toddler screams, food-throwing, or frustrated outbursts? You’re not alone—and there are effective ways to turn those challenging moments into opportunities for connection and learning. In this engaging session, led by toddler expert, Raelene Ostberg, you’ll discover practical techniques that foster both verbal and nonverbal language skills, helping children replace ear-shattering screams with meaningful phrases and gestures.

You’ll also gain insight into how infants and toddlers develop the critical language skills that reduce negative behaviors and learn the typical developmental expectations for expressive and receptive language in the first two years.Through entertaining real-life stories and engaging videos, you’ll see strategies in action and leave inspired with numerous evidence-based tools to build harmony in your early learning environment. Join us to transform everyday challenges into joyful breakthroughs—reducing stress, strengthening connections, and unlocking the magic of early learning.

Objectives: Adult learners will be able to:

• Identify effective techniques that promote communication skills in infants and toddlers

• Explain how adult interactions influence the development of executive function and learning skills

• Apply prompting cues to support young learners during behavioral challenges