Discover and play at home

Sometimes children can need encouraging to speak. If you have any concerns about your child’s speech, please contact your local Family Hub.

Children learn from adults. Have a special time every day to enjoy playing and talking together.

Houses are noisy places. Reduce the amount of noise by turning off the TV or radio. It is easier for children to listen without the extra noise.

Looking at each other will help your child understand how important talking is. Sit so that your child can see you face.

Too much dummy sucking can reduce the amount of talking your child does. This may cause difficulties in speaking. Cut down the amount of time your child has a dummy.

Your child needs you to talk with them throughout the day. Everyday jobs and routines can be a time to talk with your child like -

• meal times
• getting dressed and undressed
• bath time
• going for a walk
• going to the shops
• going for a walk
• on the bus 
• in the car

Ideas for developing your child's talking

• know the voices and faces of the people who look after me
• enjoy looking at your face
• show I am excited when I expect something good is going to happen like bath time
• copy faces
• cry and let you know whether I am happy or sad
• make noises like gurgle, shout and squeal

If you are concerned about your child's speech and language, please contact.

There are also films and activities which you may want to watch and share with your child at - 

• NSPCC - Look, Say, Sing, Play
• BBC - Tiny Happy People
• Little Moments Together