Prepositions

How to Teach Location Words Using Evidence-Based Practice

To follow directions—and to give them—children must understand prepositions.

When a child struggles with receptive language or following directions, difficulty with location words is often part of the problem. The good news is that prepositions can be taught effectively with the right approach.

Below is a practical, evidence-based way to teach them, step by step.

What Are Prepositions?

Prepositions are location words that describe where an object or person is in relation to something else.

Common examples include:

Evidence-Based Practice: Why Consistency Matters

When teaching prepositions, how you present them matters.

I reviewed the article, Nicholas, K., Alt, M., & Hauwiller, E. (2019). Variability of input in preposition learning by preschoolers with developmental language disorder and typically-developing language. Child Language Teaching and Therapy. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265659019830455/

This aligns strongly with what I see clinically.

Children with language difficulties often struggle with vocabulary more broadly. If images change too much, the task shifts from learning location words to decoding new objects—adding unnecessary cognitive load.

The takeaway:
When teaching prepositions, reduce what changes so the child can focus on the location concept itself.

How I Teach Prepositions in Therapy

Step 1: Consistent, Concrete Practice

I always start with structured, drill-like practice—often embedded in a simple game to keep motivation high.

At this stage:

• Images stay the same
• Only one or two prepositions are targeted
• The focus is clarity and repetition

I rely on materials that are:

• Concrete
• Easy to access
• Ready instantly (no prep)

This allows me to respond quickly in session and maximize practice time.

Step 2: Controlled Variation

Once a child shows progress, I increase the challenge—but carefully.

At this stage:

• Images may vary
• Only two prepositions are targeted at a time
• The contrast between concepts is intentional

If a child moves quickly through Step 1, it’s easy to shift gears without disrupting the session.

Step 3: Mixed Practice & Real-World Application

Finally, I mix both:

• Multiple prepositions
• Varied images or real objects

I often prefer using real toys or items in the room, as this supports generalization. However, having no-prep digital or printable options available ensures flexibility when needed.

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References:

• Nicholas, K., Alt, M., & Hauwiller, E. (2019). Variability of input in preposition learning by preschoolers with developmental language disorder and typically-developing language. Child Language Teaching and Therapy. https://doi.org/10.1177/0265659019830455.