What can I do to encourage language development in my 2 year old?

Read to your child, and then talk to him or her about it, asking questions about what you read.  What color was that?  What sound do pigs make?  Ask engaging questions that allow child to think critically and connect with story.  What was silly?  Create interaction with contextual references to what they’re hearing. 

Another way to encourage language development is through puppets.  You might have the puppet read the story and encourage your child to talk to the puppet.  Kids will say things to a puppet that they won’t say to an adult.  You can even make your own puppets together.  Hand puppets, sock puppets, or finger puppets are a wonderful craft you can share together.