Supporting Communication and Language

Question 1

What is the sequence of language development?

Answer 1

It is an important role for adults working with young children.

Recognising the stage they are at will help adults to adapt to their style of speech in order to give them support.

1. Babbling
2. Single words= at 12-15 months
3. Two words= at 18-24 months
4. Multi-word sentences= at 2.5 years

Question 2

How to support early verbal interaction?

Answer 2

Babies need to spend time with adults in order to “tune in” to the language they have to learn.

The pre-linguistic phase is when babies learn about the sound and tune of language.

Adults should:
Hold them
Make eye contact
Use gestures
Use facial expressions
Run commentary
Acknowledge their vocalisations

Question 3

What is the importance of appropriate adult support?

Answer 3

Giving time to respond

Acknowledge attempts to communicate

Reflecting back

Expand statements sensitively

Question 4

What is parentese?

Answer 4

Talk to baby using slow tempo and higher pitch with real words and correct grammar.

It exaggerates the length of words and is very rhythmic.

Sentences used must be simplified and short.

It is referred to as a sing song voice.

Question 5

What environments should encourage this?

Answer 5

Children need things to talk about.

This is done by creating an environment to promote language.

E.G small spaces, tents, dens and role-play areas

Younger children like to sit together and talk.

Older children may get together in a den/tent, sit and read a book together.

Question 6

What ways are used to reduce background noise?

Answer 6

Create smaller spaces

Adults shouldn’t call out to a child if they are at the other side of the room.

Using all available space and outdoor space.

Don’t use background music.

Use carpets/curtains where appropriate to absorb sound.

Have a noisy area and a quiet area separate.

Model quiet voices.

These will allow children to concentrate and communicate better.

Question 7

What activities can promote language?

Answer 7

Rhymes with Alliteration– helps children hear and recognise different sounds.

Repeating Rhymes– supports speech development.

Story Sacks– props to support and bring stories to life (3+years only).