Why Communication Is Important

Talking, understanding others and knowing what to say are really important skills. They help children make friends; learn; and enjoy life to the full.

Going from babbling baby to talkative toddler seems like a miracle, but your child needs YOU to make this happen. Talking in your home language is important to give your child the best start.

Helping build good speech and language skills is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. Talking and listening to your child helps them to understand what’s going on.

Why talk to your baby?

• Talking to your baby will help your baby to talk

  Babies learn to talk by listening to voices and working out the sounds that make up words, so the more you talk to your baby the greater chance your baby has of picking up words and learning to speak.

• Talking to your baby will help your baby to learn

  Language is the key to learning. Research has shown that children's development of language is a crucial first step in their ability to think and learn, and has a significant impact on their overall educational experience.

• Most brain development occurs between birth and the age of two

  As a baby absorbs new sights, textures, scents and sounds; the connections in the brain that make learning possible multiply and become stronger. But if a baby does not use these connections, or does not use them enough, the connections are lost forever. The best way to stimulate and strengthen your baby's brain is to talk to him/her more.

• Talking to your baby will help your baby to feel safe, secure and loved

  Your baby will love hearing your voice and will respond to the warmth and love reflected in your words as you talk to him/her. Children who are able to understand others and express their thoughts and feelings are more likely to have good relationships with other people and strong self-esteem.

• Talking to your baby will help you to bond with your child

  Any parent or carer who takes the time to develop their child's language will know how rewarding this can be. The developing relationship is incredibly enjoyable for both of you, and in the long term it lays a wonderful foundation for future learning.

• Literacy begins with speaking and listening

  Good talkers and listeners are more likely to become good readers and writers.  

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