Does your nursery-aged child seem quiet or struggle to find words? Researchers wanted to know whether structured language activities could help. They tracked 341 children across 11 schools, testing their speaking and listening skills before and after introducing daily oral language activities into their routines.
The children studied ranged across nursery ages, though specific ages weren't detailed in the report.
Rhymes and tongue twisters delivered measurable speaking gains
The results were clear. Language scores improved from an average of 41.50 to 46.01—a meaningful jump showing children weren't just picking up random words, but developing stronger overall speaking ability. The improvements showed up in four specific areas: children spoke more fluently with fewer pauses, their pronunciation sharpened, they used language more naturally in social situations like greeting others or making requests, and both their understanding and use of words grew stronger.
The activities that created these gains were simple: rhymes, chants, and tongue twisters. Nothing flashy or complicated—just playful language work done regularly.
Multilingual families have particular reason to benefit
For Singapore families, this matters especially if your household is multilingual. Strong oral language skills in one language build a foundation that supports learning in other languages later. A child who learns to speak fluently and confidently in one language carries that confidence forward. The study shows you don't need expensive programmes or intensive therapy; evidence-based, playful activities work and cost nothing.
If your child attends nursery with mixed language instruction or seems quieter than peers, this research offers reassurance. Rather than worry, you now have evidence that structured, regular language play genuinely helps.
Three ways to build speaking skills at home
- Weave rhymes and chants into daily routines—bathing, dressing, travel. Repeat the same ones frequently; consistency matters more than variety.
- Play tongue twisters together as a game, not a test. Start simple, laugh at mistakes, and let your child repeat after you at their own pace.
- Use purposeful talk during everyday play. Rather than relying on screen time, describe what your child is doing, ask open questions, and give them time to respond.