Support for children starting nursery school: Speech, language and communication

Your child’s communication and language skills are the foundation for learning, making friends, and understanding the world around them. From an early age, children learn best through talking, playing, listening, and sharing experiences with the people who care for them.

Everyday activities can make a big difference to your child’s development. Simple things like chatting together, reading stories, singing songs, playing games, and exploring new places help children build their vocabulary, confidence, and communication skills.

How good communication helps your child

As children learn to communicate, they become better at:

• expressing their needs and feelings
• sharing ideas and experiences
• building positive relationships with others
• understanding and responding to the people around them
• developing confidence in themselves and their abilities

Local parenting and family groups

Local parenting and family groups can be a great way to support your child’s development. They provide opportunities for children to play, communicate, and develop social skills in a safe and supportive environment.

For parents and carers, these groups offer a chance to:

• meet other families
• share experiences and ideas
• learn practical ways to support your child’s learning and development
• access advice and support when needed

Activities in your community

Connecting with local services is an excellent way to practice communication skills.

Find out what is available by visiting:

• local libraries: offering free book lending, quiet spaces, and family events
• baby and toddler groups (external website): relaxed spaces for children to play and parents to chat
• Denbighshire Early Years and Family Link Facebook group (external website): an online community to stay updated on local family events and support

Welsh language support

Support is available to help you and your child enjoy using the Welsh language.

The Cymraeg i Blant (external website) programme offers free support, information, and activities for families. As well as providing advice about Welsh-medium childcare and education, the programme runs fun sessions through the medium of Welsh, including:

• baby massage
• baby yoga
• story and rhyme sessions
• singing and play groups

You do not need to speak Welsh to attend. Everyone is welcome, and the sessions can help build your confidence to use Welsh with your child while having fun together.

Welsh-medium education

You can find out more about Welsh-medium education in Denbighshire by visiting our Welsh-medium education webpage.