Toddler not talking?

When we're called in to see  toddler who isn't talking, many parents are surprised that we don't start to work on getting them to say words . We have talked before about there being a pyramid of priority, as below

However, for some children, about whom we may be concerned about social interaction, we will suggest a different approach. As Hanen licensed therapists we might have these 5 top goals:

1. For the child to enjoy social interaction
2. To understand and use non-verbal communication (especially gestures)
3. To pay attention to people’s faces and words
4. To help the child imitate
5. To respond to bids for Joint Attention (RJA)

These can all be done through play.

Tips for Toddler Talking

This is useful for all the parents who want to know what to do:




By Kimberly Scanlon

Reasons, means and opportunities: choice making opportunities

Children will not develop language without a reason, a means and an opportunity. One of the best ways a parent can give the opportunity to communicate is by offering choices.

It sounds a really simple thing to do but it helps  children understand that they can use language to have an effect on the world around them. Once they see they can have an effect or see the power of using language to help them to get what they want, this is powerful motivation. A motivated child will communicate more and in turn learn more skills. Even children with no spoken language can be taught the power of choice making by pointing.

To help your child make more choices try the following ideas:

 Develop the habit of offering choices as often as you can,  wherever possible.    

Choices can include:

§  which piece of fruit eg apple or banana

§  Which drink to eat eg water or juice

§   which cup to use eg green or red

§  Which book to read eg Grufello or Squash and a Squeeze

§  Which DVD to watch

§  Which toy to play with. If toys are freely available they don't need to request one, if they're up high, they have to request so its better for developing communication. Unfortunately for communication development, nurseries have to allow free choice now so they don't always have the scope that you do at home.

This simple change can have a big effect! Try is today!

Bad parenting: the root of all evil?

A controversial statement by Sir Michael Wilshaw, OFSTED's Chief Inspector, cites bad parenting as the root of society's problems as reported on in:
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2462110/Sir-Michael-Wilshaw-attacks-hollowed-fragmented-families.html

What do you think? Is he right, are we to blame or is this another attack on parents designed to make us feel more guilty than we already do? I'd love to know your thoughts...........

Do you know about two year old's speech, language and communication?

If you are in the Stafford area and work with 0-3 year olds, you are welcome to attend some free training. 19th April 1pm - 3pm at Silkmore children's Centre. 

By the end of the session participants will:

• be able to describe the development of speech, language and communication skills in children under 3 years
• to be able to understand the processes of pre-verbal and early verbal development
•  to be able to identify risk factors that impact on the development of communication skills
• understand the role practitioners play in supporting speech, language and communication development in children aged 0-3 years
• be able to gather information regarding any difficulties along with knowledge of when and where to refer

To book a place see www.bookwhen.com/smalltalk Places are limited, so reserve your asap!