Every chat you have with your child helps them develop their social skills. Children’s brains are like little sponges, soaking up everything around them. Kids love it when you chat, play and read with them. And it sets them up nicely for school. Find more about chatting withy our baby or toddler here.
Chat rhymes with cat, hat, and splat. That’s so funny, you really make me laugh!
This box is a car. No, a truck. No, a monster truck, yeah!
Remember these skills when chatting with little ones.
Talk
Pause
Listen
Respond
Did you know?
when babies babble or toddlers make noises, they are chatting to you and love it when you chat back
spending 10 minutes focussed time each day chatting, playing or reading with your child can make a huge differ when they start school
getting down on the floor and playing with what interests your child each day can help their speaking and listening and their behaviour
chatting, playing and reading sets your child up nicely for school
Why is chatting important?
Talking to your baby is important for their development because it helps them learn language and communication skills, and it also builds your relationship with them:
Language and communication: Babies learn to speak by imitating the sounds they hear around them, so talking to them often helps them acquire speech and language skills faster.
Brain development: Talking to your baby stimulates their brain, which helps strengthen the connections that make learning possible. 75% of a baby’s brain development happens in the first two years of life.
Social and emotional development: Talking to your baby helps them develop social skills and good relationships. It also shows them that you love and respect them, which can enhance their self-esteem.
Bonding: Communication is the basis of your relationship with your baby, so talking to them helps you form a close bond.
Where and when
Try action nursery rhymes like ‘row, row your boat’ or ‘wind the bobbin’. The rhythm and repeating words are loved by babies and help them learn in an easy fun way.
