Path for Words: Five-Minute Language Learning Activities for Children Ages One to Three Years

by Marie Martinez

"Certified speech-language pathologist and behavior analyst Martinez offers an easy-to-follow, research-backed guide to bridging communication gaps between toddlers and caregivers." —Kirkus Reviews

Path for Words is designed as a tool for families to turn everyday activities into language learning opportunities. Use this resource to learn about communication milestones for your child and how to build on their strengths. This resource can be used to support your child’s communication journey before early intervention services begin. The strategies and supports described in this book are designed to be incorporated into your busy day. The toddler years are busy and full of language learning opportunities. Enjoy your child’s path for words by experiencing your impact on their language development.
Marie provides families with additional resources and programs and shares research to help them explore the evidence behind the strategies included within the activities described. Path for Words includes a series of practical activities that can accompany a caregiver on their parenting journey, building on the strengths of their individual child where they are on their communication journey.

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 9, 2025

About the author

Marie Martinez is a dually certified professional in behavior analysis and pediatric speech-language pathology, with extensive clinical experience. As one of the few experts in both fields, Marie has contributed to research on parent coaching, asynchronous family supports, and family outreach. An invited presenter, she frequently shares insights on integrating speech and language strategies with early childhood best practices. In addition to her clinical work, Marie serves as the professional development manager for the American Speech-Language and Hearing Telepractice Special Interest Group, advancing the field of telepractice.

Marie is the founder of the Path for Words program, which supports caregivers in creating speech and language opportunities for their children’s development. Passionate about supporting families, Marie combines academic expertise with practical experience to empower caregivers and enhance children’s development. A dedicated professional and a mother, she is committed to fostering lasting positive change in the lives of families.

Reviews

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have two children. My son is just starting to talk and my daughter has a developmental delay, which has caused her to be nonverbal. A lot of the information in Part 1 is so valuable and would be a great resource for any new parent. Early intervention is so important!!

For Part 2, I wish there were more activities listed. The general categories were great (bath, diaper, snack, outside, etc) but I felt like the activities were a bit hard to accomplish. There were a lot of little tips interspersed which I liked as well as the resources.

Definitely a worthy read.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!

[David Carriere · Rating 5 out of 5]

Path for Words is a thoughtful, reassuring guide that meets parents exactly where they are in the often overwhelming toddler years. Marie Martinez transforms everyday moments into powerful language building opportunities, showing that meaningful communication growth does not require complicated routines or specialized settings, only intention, awareness, and consistency.

What makes this book especially valuable is its balance of warmth and evidence based guidance. The activities are simple, practical, and realistic for busy families, while the explanations behind them empower caregivers to understand why each interaction matters. Rather than pushing milestones as pressure points, the book emphasizes observing a child’s strengths and nurturing progress at their individual pace.

The tone is supportive and inclusive, making it an excellent resource not only for parents but also for early childhood professionals and caregivers preparing for or navigating early intervention. By grounding its strategies in research while remaining accessible and encouraging, Path for Words becomes more than a parenting book, it becomes a companion through one of the most formative stages of a child’s development.

Clear, compassionate, and deeply practical, this book offers families confidence, clarity, and a renewed appreciation for the power of everyday communication.

[Dieni M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Path for Words by Marie Martinez is a warm and insightful guide to early childhood communication. What I loved most is how Martinez shows that language begins long before words. Simple gestures like pointing, waving, or a high five carry deep meaning—and she reminds us that over 70% of a message can come from nonverbal cues. This perspective is both reassuring and practical for parents whose toddlers aren’t yet speaking.

I also found the section on multilingual exposure refreshing. Martinez debunks the myth that learning more than one language confuses children, showing instead how early exposure actually strengthens future language skills.

The writing style is clear, encouraging, and non-judgmental, making complex research feel approachable. It’s not a step-by-step manual but an inspiring resource filled with evidence-based insights.

I’d recommend this book to new parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone interested in child development.

[Tara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Path for Words is a thoughtfully crafted, compassionate, and highly practical guide that empowers families to nurture language development during the most formative years of a child’s life. Marie Martinez expertly transforms everyday routines into meaningful communication opportunities, making early language learning feel natural, achievable, and stress-free for busy caregivers. The five-minute activity framework is especially effective, meeting families exactly where they are without adding pressure.

What truly sets this book apart is its balance of warmth, evidence-based strategies, and real-world usability. By grounding each activity in developmental milestones and research, while keeping the tone encouraging and accessible, Path for Words becomes both a trusted reference and a daily companion. It is an invaluable resource for parents, caregivers, and professionals seeking to support early communication with confidence, intention, and joy.