Early language development
Speech, language and communication support
Supporting children’s language and communication development is a core aim of the Flying Start programme
Find out more….
Support for children to learn to talk and communicate
Every child deserves to have the best start in life and developing speech and language skills are crucial if a child is to reach their full potential. They need to be able to communicate to be able to learn at school, socialise with family and play with friends.
Research into brain development has shown that the first three years of a child’s life are crucial to the development of good language and communication skills.
Most children develop language skills with few problems, but some need more support. This can come from family members, childcare practitioners, early year’s workers, and people in their community.
Early Language Groups
Within Merthyr Tydfil we offer a range of FREE, fun, and interactive course for all families with babies aged 0-24 months. They offer structured time to engage and play together, whilst gaining some top tips on supporting the development of babies’ speech and language skills both now and in the future.
- Little Stars (newborn - 3 months)
- Let’s Talk with your baby (3-6 months)
- Your baby is amazing (6-24 months)
- Little Explorers (9-15 months)
- Rhythm & Rhyme (15-24 months)
What to do if you are worried
If you are concerned about your child’s speech and language development and think they may need some support, talk to your health visitor or GP.
You can contact us in the Early Language team for support with language development (age 0-3 years) through groups or individual support. Please contact us to request support on Merthyr.ELD@merthyr.gov.uk
All children within Flying Start are screened using the WellComm Speech and Language toolkit at 20 months, 2 years and 3 years of age. This allows parents and professionals to better understand and support children's speech, language and communication needs.
The Flying Start Speech and Language Therapist assesses children with identified speech and language delay and provides a comprehensive care programme to improve speech and language development.
Related Websites
Children's speech and language - BBC Tiny Happy People
How can you encourage a child’s language development? | Baby & toddler articles & support | NCT
Play and learning - NHS (www.nhs.uk)