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Helping my child communicate when they start school
For: 0-5 years
Starting school is a big step. You may be worried about how your child talks, listens and plays with other children. Your child may find it hard to tell people what they need, understand instructions or join activities and conversations. This page explains how you can help your child communicate at school and when to ask for advice.
More about helping my child communicate when they start school
You can help your child get ready for school by encouraging them to understand what others say, express their needs and take part in learning and play. By the time they start school, most children can answer simple questions, speak in short sentences and follow everyday instructions. Some children may need more time or support to develop these skills.
Children can find communication hard for different reasons. They may find it hard to focus or have fewer chances to talk and play with other children. Some children develop communication skills at their own pace. Busy or noisy places can also make it harder to listen and understand what people say.
You might notice that your child gets upset when they cannot explain what they want. They may avoid talking or playing with other children. They might also find it hard to listen, follow instructions or focus on an activity. This can feel worrying, especially when they are getting ready to start school.
Supporting your child’s attention and play skills can make a big difference. Keeping instructions short, reducing background noise and getting your child’s attention before speaking can help them focus. Playing together can also help. Follow your child’s interests, use simple language and talk about what they are doing. This helps them learn new skills without pressure.
Communication skills help children make friends, take part in activities and understand what is happening at school. These skills include taking turns, making eye contact, using longer sentences, learning new words and speaking clearly. Some children may need more time or support to develop these skills, which can make starting school feel more challenging.
You can support your child's social and communication skills by getting down to their level, making eye contact and keeping activities fun. Talk about feelings in stories and TV programmes to help them understand others. Repeat what your child says using the correct words and add extra detail to help them learn new words and sentences. When you're out and about, encourage them to spot and talk about words on street signs, buses and food packaging while shopping.
To help your child learn new words and speak clearly, use simple language, repeat new words and use objects or pictures to show what they mean. Speak clearly when showing your child how to say words. If you do not understand what your child is saying, encourage them to try again or use gestures. If your child is finding it hard to communicate or is not making progress, it is okay to ask for help.
Questions and answers
How can I help my child communicate at school?
You can help your child by talking, playing and reading together every day. Sit or kneel so you are face to face. Use short, clear sentences and talk about the games and activities they choose. Give your child time to listen, understand and respond.
What should my child be able to do before starting school?
Many children can understand simple questions and instructions. They may use short sentences to say what they want or need, play with other children, listen to a short story and take turns talking and listening. Every child develops at their own pace, so your child may not be able to do all these things before starting school.
How can I tell if my child needs help with communication?
You may notice that your child finds it hard to follow instructions or uses very short sentences. Other people may find it hard to understand what they say. Your child may avoid talking, become upset when people do not understand them, or find it hard to focus or play with other children.
How can play help my child communicate?
Play is one of the best ways children learn. When you play together, you can model words, use simple sentences and show how conversations work. Keeping it fun and following your child’s lead helps them feel confident trying new words and ideas. Look for opportunities to talk and read together throughout the day, including words you see on street signs, shop signs and food packaging.
Should I correct how my child says words or sentences?
Say the word or sentence clearly instead of telling your child they are wrong. Repeat what your child says using a clear sentence, but do not ask them to say it again. Praise them for trying and respond to what they are telling you.
When should I ask for help?
Speak to your child’s health visitor, nursery or school if they find communication hard, other people find their speech difficult to understand, or you are worried about their progress.
You know your child well. Ask for advice if something does not feel right.
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