Whispers and Words – Encouraging Speech Through Seasonal Play and Pretend

Festive moments like Halloween bring more than candy and costumes—they open up wonderful chances to build language skills through imagination and connection. Whether your child is whispering a secret, pretending to be a pumpkin, or playing make-believe, they’re practicing vital elements of communication in the most natural way.

In Phnom Penh, parents are finding creative ways to use seasonal play as a springboard for speech development—and the results are as joyful as they are effective.

Why Pretend Play Boosts Speech and Language

Role-play and themed games create exciting environments for language to flourish. Children naturally:

• Use new vocabulary – “Witch,” “spooky,” “treat,” “costume”

• Engage in storytelling – “I’m a pumpkin who loves to dance!”

• Practice turn-taking in conversation – “It’s your turn to knock!”

• Express emotions and intentions – “I’m scared!” or “I’m hiding!”

• Mimic real-life social speech – Asking, answering, sharing, and guessing

These experiences stretch imagination and strengthen both receptive and expressive language.

Ways to Encourage Speech During Festive Play

Even small interactions during holidays or dress-up days can become learning opportunities:

• Ask open-ended questions: “What is your costume’s name?”

• Add detail to their speech: “Yes, a sparkly orange pumpkin with a green hat!”

• Use themed storybooks and songs to build vocabulary

• Allow your child to lead the play, supporting their narrative

• Whisper games (like in the photo!) are great for auditory memory and turn-taking

Festive environments make it easier for shy or speech-delayed children to participate in a fun, low-pressure setting.

When Play Isn’t Enough on Its Own

If your child isn’t using age-appropriate language, has difficulty forming sentences, or avoids verbal interaction even during exciting events, it may be time to consider speech therapy. Early support makes a big difference.

OrbRom Center – Helping Kids Speak Up All Year Round

At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we use creative, child-centered strategies—like role-play and seasonal themes—to help children express themselves confidently. Our speech therapy services support kids through both structured learning and joyful moments, helping them build communication skills that last far beyond the holidays.