Why Figurative Language Matters

Have you ever told your child, “You are my sunshine” or laughed when someone said, “It is raining cats and dogs”? These phrases are examples of figurative language. Even though preschoolers are just beginning to build vocabulary, they are ready to explore this playful side of communication. Figurative language strengthens imagination, flexible thinking, and social understanding while laying the foundation for later reading comprehension.

Idioms: “It is raining cats and dogs.”
Metaphors: “You are my sunshine.”
Similes: “He is fast like a cheetah.”
Playful expressions: “Peek-a-boo, I see you!”

How Preschoolers Learn Figurative Language

Preschoolers learn best when language is tied to action, routine, and play. They do not learn idioms by memorizing a list. Instead, they learn through repeated exposure in meaningful, hands-on experiences. For example, a child who hears, “You are bouncing off the walls,” while jumping on a bed begins to link that silly phrase with movement and fun.

The key is to introduce figurative language in a way that feels natural, playful, and connected to what your child is already doing.

Step-by-Step Strategies for Teaching Figurative Language

Below are practical ways to introduce figurative language during everyday play and routines. Each step includes examples and simple scripts you can use.

Step 1: Start with Playful Comparisons

Preschoolers love comparisons. Begin with simple similes that describe actions or feelings.

During play:

When your child runs: “Wow, you are fast like a cheetah!”
When they hug you: “That hug is big like a bear hug!”

During routines:

While eating: “This watermelon is sweet like candy.”
During bath: “The water is warm like the sun.”

Why this works: Children understand better when you connect figurative language to something they can see or feel.

Step 2: Use Dramatic Play for Idioms

Pretend play is the perfect setting for teaching idioms. Children can act out silly expressions, which makes them memorable.

Examples:

“It is raining cats and dogs.” Pretend to hold an umbrella while stuffed animals fall down.
“Do not spill the beans.” Hide pretend beans in a cup and “spill” them during play.

Script:

Parent: “Oh no! It is raining cats and dogs. Quick, grab the umbrella!”
Child: (laughs, holds umbrella)
Parent: “Look, the kitty and puppy are falling from the sky. That is so silly!”

Why this works: Humor and imagination help children remember new phrases.

Step 3: Highlight Everyday Expressions

You already use figurative language without realizing it. Start pointing it out to your child in the moment.

Examples:

“You are all ears.” (say this while your child is listening closely)
“Time to hit the road.” (say this as you head to the car)
“You are my sunshine.” (say this during snuggles)

Script:

Parent: “You are all ears. That means you are listening very carefully. I like that.”

Why this works: Preschoolers learn best when figurative language is tied to familiar daily routines.

Step 4: Pair Figurative Language with Gestures and Actions

Actions make language concrete. Add movement or facial expressions when you introduce new phrases.

Examples:

Say “I am on cloud nine” while smiling and pretending to float.
Say “You are strong as an ox” while flexing your muscles.
Say “Cold as ice” while shivering dramatically.

Script:

Parent: “Brrr! My hands are cold as ice. Feel them.”
Child: (touches hands, laughs)
Parent: “See? Ice is freezing cold, and my hands feel the same.”

Why this works: Gestures give children a visual anchor for abstract ideas.

Step 5: Repeat and Reinforce

Children need to hear figurative phrases many times before they begin to use them. Repeat phrases in different contexts and celebrate when your child tries them.

Examples:

At dinner: “You are eating like a horse!”
At the park: “You are brave as a lion climbing that slide.”
At bedtime: “You are my shining star.”

Script:

Parent: “You said, ‘I am fast like a cheetah!’ That is a great way to use your words.”

Why this works: Repetition builds memory. Praise builds confidence.

Scripts You Can Use Today

Here are ready-to-use phrases to try:

During play:
- “You are bouncing off the walls!” (when child is energetic)
- “You are a busy little bee.” (when child is moving quickly from toy to toy)
During meals:
- “You are eating like a hungry bear.”
- “This soup is hot as fire.”
During routines:
- “You are bright as the sun in your yellow shirt.”
- “Time to hit the hay.” (before bed)
During emotions:
- “Your smile is big as the moon.”
- “You look mad as a dragon.”

Tips for Success

Keep it short. Use phrases with only a few words.
Stay playful. Make it fun, not a lesson.
Explain simply. Add a quick explanation: “Cold as ice means very cold.”
Repeat often. Use the same phrase across different days and settings.
Use your child’s interests. If your child loves dinosaurs, try: “You are stomping like a T-Rex.”

Final Thoughts

Figurative language does not need to wait until elementary school. Preschoolers are ready to begin exploring early forms of playful, imaginative language when it is woven into daily life. By using similes, idioms, and expressions during play and routines, you can help your child build flexible thinking and stronger language skills.

Remember, you do not need flashcards or worksheets. You need only your daily moments, a little creativity, and a willingness to have fun with words. With time and repetition, your child will begin to understand and even use figurative language on their own.

Language is powerful, and figurative language makes it colorful, joyful, and meaningful. Start small, keep it playful, and watch your child’s imagination grow.

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Disclaimer: This article offers general educational information. It is not a substitute for professional evaluation or treatment. Please consult a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist for personalized concerns regarding your child’s speech development.