Communication is a fundamental life skill, and its importance in early childhood has been well-evidenced. Language development at age two can often predict children’s performance on entry to primary school, while children with poor language skills at five are at a substantial risk of low achievement at seven and beyond.
In his 2006 review of early reading, Sir Jim Rose notes, ‘The development of speaking and listening skills requires fuller and more intensive attention to make sure that children acquire a good stock of words, learn to listen attentively, and speak clearly and confidently... they are prime communication skills, hugely important in their own right and central to children’s intellectual, social and emotional development.’
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