A child’s language development starts when they begin to recognise sounds in the womb. Their language skills are then shaped by their home environment, including the physical space and the quality of support from caregivers.
Studies show that everyday conversations, pretend play and reading are particularly important for language development. Activities like daily routines, park visits, and library trips also positively impact language skills.
The small things you do at home make the biggest difference. Chatting, playing and reading with your children, helps build their brains.
Here are some resources to support your child's learning at home:
- Enfield’s Family Information Service – offers helpful links and advice on supporting your child’s learning at home
- NHS Start for Life – provides lots of ideas and activities for different ages
- Enfield Children’s Centre – Stay and Play groups for 1 to 4-year-olds enrich your child’s knowledge and development through play, helping them explore their creativity and language skills
If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s development, you can visit a therapist from the Universal Therapies Team for advice and guidance.
Informed Families also provide advice and signposting to services supporting 0 to 25-year-olds.