3-4 years: What can I do as a practitioner? - Services for all
This is for all children and parents – to promote good speaking and listening.
- Answer:
Assess and monitor children’s communication development as part of the Early Years Foundation Stage.
If the child has English as a second language talk to parents about how the child performs in their home language Early Years settings can use screening tools to assess a childs needs, put in place a plan with targets, sharing targets with parents and monitor this plan making a note of progress or ongoing difficulties.
For more information about the Early Communication Screen contact sltnorth.admin@mft.nhs.uk
If the child has English as a second language talk to parents about how the child performs in their home language.
- Answer:
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 space and time to think and respond.
- Engage with children by repeating and extending their communication
- Talk often, use activities to introduce new words, and use a variety of language
- During everyday activities, talk about what you are doing.
- Read books with children regularly.
It is never too early for books. Staffordshire Library and Stoke on Trent Libraries offer a range of books and activities. New born babies like strong contrasting colours so will love black and white images. Make them fun using different voices and facial expressions. Talk about the pictures and using props or finger puppets to help bring stories alive.
- Re-read books so children become familiar with the words
- Use questions to stimulate language
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Re screen to review progress.
- Answer:
Signpost families to the Staffordshire Family Hubs offer and encourage them to participate in activities. Encourage families to follow their local Children’s Centre Facebook page so they are aware of new sessions and are accessing information relevant to families. All details can be found on Staffordshire Connects Family Hubs. Refer families meeting the Free Pass Card criteria into the scheme to support with the financial barrier of attending sessions. Encourage families to complete a Children’s Centre membership form. These can be obtained by contacting your local Family Hubs.
Family Hubs
Signpost families to the Staffordshire Family Hubs page on Staffordshire Connects so they can be aware of the projects delivered by the hub which support children’s development and support families. Encourage families to follow their local Family Hubs on Facebook so they are accessing information relevant to families
Please see Stoke on Trent Children’s Centres for more information on the Children’s Centre offer in this area.