Language

What is it?

Language is the words we use and how we use them to share ideas and get what we want. Language includes: understanding what other people say, learning words, making sentences and telling stories.

For some children learning language comes naturally. Other children may need some help to learn words and sentences. Some children continue to find language difficult, even with help.

 

Language in the early years

All children learn to talk at different speeds. Some children find it harder than others to learn to talk. If you want to find out more, you can have a look at this ‘ages and stages’ webpage. Select your child’s age and see what is expected for their age, things to look out for and how to support your child’s talking.

Ages and stages - Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives

 

Language through school

We use language all the time in school. Teachers use language to give children information and give instructions. Children use language to tell stories, show they’ve understood the lesson and make friendships. When a child finds language difficult, then school can be difficult for them too. If you want to find out more, you can have a look at this ‘ages and stages’ webpage. Select your child’s age and see what is expected for their age, things to look out for and how to support your child’s talking.

Ages and stages - Speech and Language UK: Changing young lives

 

What causes a Language difficulty?

We don’t know exactly why some people have a language difficulty. Some people with a language difficulty may have other diagnosis as well.

• You cannot cause it.

• It is not parents/ carers faults.

• A language difficulties are not caused by speaking more than one language.

 

What can I do to help language?

• Get your child’s attention. Say their name and make sure they can see your face.

• Use simple talking and repeat it if necessary. Keep instructions simple. Say instructions in the order you want them e.g. First …, then…

• Check your child has understood e.g. “Tell me what you need to do”.

• Talk calmly and slowly. Use pauses to help them process and have time to respond. Give one instruction at a time.

• Use pictures, gestures and objects. This helps to understand what you are saying.

• Support your child to interact in whatever way they can. This might be pointing/ showing you something, facial expression, gestures, key words.

• Help their social skills. Model taking turns, listening to others, and using simple words to do this.

• Give your child specific praise. Praise any efforts to understand and use language.

General advice and information