Importance of Speaking
Communication is the way we connect with other people. It underpins learning and development in children of all ages and is a skill that can always be developed and improved. Learning to communicate is the most important thing a child will ever do.
We sometimes assume that speech, language and communication skills develop and flourish no matter what. This is not the case... children need adults to encourage and support development of their language and communication.
One of the prime areas of learning in the EYFS curriculum in England is ‘Communication and Language’. Within Communication and Language
the three early learning goals are based around; ‘listening and
attention’, ‘understanding’ and ‘speaking’. The focus on these areas shows how important it is that children develop good foundation skills in communication and language early on in their life.
The following resource - 'Universally Speaking' provides information that will help parents and teachers to support children to develop skills in line with their age, as well as helping us to identify and support children who may be struggling.
Children’s communication and language is ‘everybody’s business’. Parents and staff who see and work with children regularly are often the experts in knowing about a child’s communication. With the right
information and access to the right help at the right time early on, everyone can really make a difference