Communication starts in the very early days of your child’s life. From looking at others, to communicating their needs through vocalisations such as crying and babbling, to later using words and having conversations.

The pre-school years are an important stage in a child’s language development. It ensures the foundations are in place for later learning, literacy and forming relationships. Children will learn to communicate, understand and use language at different rates and stages. There are many different areas and skills that need to develop for a child’s language to grow.

Parents play a key role in supporting their child’s language and communication skills in everyday life. Children learn about the world through their experiences and interests, particularly within their play. The evidence highlights the importance of joining our children in their play and following their interests to provide them with opportunities to develop their ability to understand and use words and later sentences.

Early Speech and Language