How and Why to Teach Prepositions in Speech Therapy

Spatial concepts are an area that speech therapists address because they are a critical component of language development.  Understanding positional concepts is essential for effective communication and comprehension of language.

What are Spatial Concepts? Why are They Important?

Spatial concepts, also known as positional or location concepts, refer to the words and ideas that describe where objects or people are in space. These include terms like in, on, under, next to, behind, between, in front of, and above. These words are typically introduced in early language development and are foundational for both understanding and expressing ideas clearly.

Grasping spatial concepts is essential for effective communication. When children can understand and use these words, they are better equipped to follow directions, describe scenes or events, and engage in interactive play. Being able to understand and correctly use them is critical for daily life, routines, and academic tasks and instructions.

In speech therapy, we focus on spatial concepts because they play a key role in:

• Listening comprehension – especially during multi-step directions.
• Expressive language – when a child describes where something is or gives someone else instructions.
• Problem-solving and reasoning – understanding how objects relate to each other spatially supports logic and sequencing.
• Classroom learning – academic tasks like reading, writing, and math often rely on spatial language. For instance, children may be asked to “circle the word above the picture” or “draw a line under the object that doesn’t belong.”

These concepts also overlap with other foundational language skills, such as vocabulary development, sentence structure, and storytelling. Teaching spatial concepts helps build a child’s ability to understand the world around them and express themselves.

Prepositions Development:

1-2 years: 

• follows simple directions including in and on
• uses simple directional terms, such as up and down
• uses 2-3 prepositions, such as on, in, under

2-3 years:

• distinguishes between in and under
• understands in, off, on, under, out of, together, away from

3-4 years:

• understands next to, beside, between
• uses prepositions behind, in front, around

4-5 years:

• understands nearest and through

5-6 years: 

• understands opposite concepts, such as over/under
• understands left/right
• uses prepositions through, nearest, corner, middle
  

Download this infographic.

Ways to Teach Prepositions

When introducing prepositions, start by using the child’s body and 3D objects in your environment. These tangible interactions create meaningful connections that are easier to recall later.

Have the child crawl through a pop-up tunnel, step over a pillow, or hide behind a chair while you narrate each action. Use stuffed animals or therapy puppets: Put the puppet under the table, next to the child, or inside a bag, and have the child tell you where it is—or direct you where to move it next. Use your own body as a prop. Place a toy on top of your foot or under your arm. Pretend to “lose” an item and discover it in a new position—“Oh no! It’s behind me!”

Use Everyday Activities

Everyday routines offer opportunities to naturally introduce and reinforce prepositions.

During clean-up, say: “Put the blocks in the bin,” or “Place the puzzle on the shelf.” During snack time: “Let’s put your cup next to your plate,” or “Oops! Your spoon fell under the table!” While dressing: “Pull your shirt over your head,” or “Put your arms through the sleeves.”

Embedding prepositions into functional routines helps children understand them in real-life contexts, increasing both comprehension and carryover.

Incorporate Visuals and Toys

Incorporate simple puzzles, obstacle courses, play hide and seek, or utilize books and songs! Use a barn and animals: “Put the cow inside the barn. Now let’s place the pig on the roof. Where should we hide the horse?” Or use a dollhouse or toy playground to model scenes and practice prepositions like between, next to, above, and beneath.

Build Into Multi-Step Directions

Once a child understands basic spatial words, begin embedding them into multi-step directions for generalization: “Put the ball under the chair, then clap your hands.” This boosts auditory memory, sequencing, and comprehension—especially helpful for classroom readiness and functional language use.

Prepositions Speech Therapy Resources

I enjoy using activity-based resources when generalizing concepts, doing teletherapy, or if a child needs something more engaging and exciting.

Spatial Concepts Bundle – This activity includes a collection of prepositions worksheets and activities. Specifically designed to enhance spatial concepts in speech therapy sessions. It’s perfect for introducing spatial concepts or for speech therapy homework! This is an easy-to-grab and use resource whether you prefer printed or digital! The open-ended nature of these allow flexibility in what you target and the difficulty level. Ask different questions each time!

Preposition Play Dough Mats – A no-prep, interactive activity to practice prepositions, build vocabulary, and follow directions! This no-prep, interactive activity includes scenes with pre-made directions specifically designed to enhance preposition concepts in speech therapy sessions. Perfect for introducing spatial concepts in speech therapy or for speech therapy homework! Use play dough, bingo chips, mini objects, or other manipulatives.

Boom Cards Prepositions – This digital resource allows you to practice prepositions, build vocabulary, and follow directions. It includes 16 prepositions and 100 directions! The resource is set up to get many trials while introducing, teaching, and generalizing prepositions. It is organized to target spatial concepts systematically and to take data easily.

Any other tips for teaching prepositions in speech therapy or the classroom? Leave a comment!

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