News

Language development: More than words

<P> Children's early communication is best supported through personal interaction, free of distractions and discomfort, says Jennie Lindon </P>

Children's early communication is best supported through personal interaction, free of distractions and discomfort, says Jennie Lindon

Babies are born ready to make contact through all their means of very early communication. So what do they need from us and from their learning environment to support their developing language skills?

Sound and vision
Babies, toddlers and young children need to have involved adults close to them. Affectionate early communication uses sound, vision and touch. It has to be personal.

Restrict distractions

Young children need to be able to hear and discriminate between the sounds that make up the language they are learning:

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here