Do

From copying facial expressions in a new born baby to using gestures and singing, through to books and pretend play, a child’s first few years lay the roots for speech and language development. This begins with attention and listening skills, playing and interaction then leading up to understanding.

• Give each child a communication and language target. Regularly monitor and review this and update the targets to ensure continuous progress
  
  
• Give each child individual attention. 
  
  
• It is important to say their name when you speak to your child. Focus on giving them your full attention and show interest in what they are interested in. 
  
  
• Get down to the child's level when you are interacting with them. 
  
  
• Wait and listen before speaking, to allow the child time to think and respond. 
  
  
• Engage with children by repeating and extending their communication. 
  
  
• Talk often, use activities to introduce new words, use a variety of language. 
  
  
• During every day activities talk about what you are doing. 
  
  
• Read books with children regularly. 
     
• Use questions to stimulate language.
     
• Give each child a communication and language target. Regularly monitor and review this and update the targets to ensure continuous progress 

• Give each child individual attention
    
• It is important to say their name when you speak to your child. Focus on giving them your full attention and show interest in what they are interested in. 
     
• Get down to the child’s level when you are interacting with them 
     
• Wait and listen before speaking, to allow the child space and time to think and respond 
     
• Engage with children by repeating and extending their communication. 
     
• Talk often, use activities to Introduce new words, use a variety of language 
     
• During everyday activities talk about what you are doing 
     
• Read books with children regularly 
     
• Offer a range of books and activities 
     
• Newborn babies like strong contrasting colours so will love black and white images
     
• Make books fun using different voices and facial expressions
     
• Talk about the pictures and use props or finger puppets to help bring stories alive 
     
• Re-read books so children become familiar with the words
     
• Use questions to stimulate language

It is never too early for books. Staffordshire Library and Stoke on Trent Libraries offer a range of books and activities. 

Staffordshire County Council - Staffordshire Libraries

Stoke on Trent City Council - Stoke Libraries