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The Phenomon of Twin Talk
Author: Stef Daniel
Long before your toddling twins murmur their first word, you will probably hear about the phenomon of twin talk. Although it may cause worry and concern, it is a completely natural occurrence that is inevitable at some point during the toddler years. While it sounds very deep and meaningful, the truth is it is just a manner of communicating that many others outside of the twins can't understand. And although it may make parents pensive, it usually resolves itself.
Essentially, twin talk is sort of like learning another language. Since the twins are together so often, they begin to identify words and both agree on an understanding of them. Then they will use them and expect the rest of the world to understand as well. In fact, twins often have a language of their own that is saved for those special toddler moments when they are playing well together. Twin talk also involves certain noises and grunts and can be compared to the way dogs or cats communicate with one another.
The problem arises when they take their twin talk on the road. When they try to talk to family members, other kids, or even mom and dad, no one can understand them. The best thing to do is to encourage them to speak properly, help them along with their words, and allow them to talk to each other that way. Eventually their language will evolve and their use of words will correct itself. When one begins to change the vocabulary of the twin talk into more realistic terms, the other will follow suit. There is a low occurrence of twins who have any long-term speech problems due to twin talk, so parents really shouldn't be that worried. It is time to seek help when and if they refuse to alter their language when speaking to others, or if they aren't able to learn correct words or pronunciations. According to an online clinical study in pediatrics of twins who had developed twin talk, 98% of the three-year-olds tested were language adept when given words and asked to identify the corresponding picture.
Essentially, twin talk happens because it works for the twins. They are able to communicate with one another in a manner that is comfortable and easier for them, and they can be understood by each other. Encouraging them to use and pronounce words properly, and using educational props like flash cards or pictures to build their language will ensure that their verbal skills are up to par.
Twin talk is no different from a toddler having a parent who allows their child to speak incorrectly without intervention or who finishes their every sentence for them. This hinders language development, which is largely motivated by need. When it comes to being a twin, the need is always to communicate to their sibling quickly, and as long as they are understood they have no idea they are doing anything "wrong."
In a way, twin talk is sort of a secret language and is something they have together. While it shouldn't be outwardly encouraged, it should not cause stress and should be seen as a cute phase of their twin life together. If any two people could make up a language of their own, twins would be the ones to do it!
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