Nursery World - Nursery Equipment: Introduction

Creating a rich communication environment is vital for language development, says Nancy Stewart.

A young child who eagerly recounts adventures in the woods, argues why only the blue cup will do, or plans with playmates what roles to take in fantasy play is using language as a powerful tool - to share and clarify their thinking, to build relationships, and to imagine. This child has come a long way from the very beginnings of communication and language.

We are born to be social, and from the first day of life a child seeks out eye contact and pays special attention to the human voice. Early interactions help to build a connection with the people giving the care and attention a baby needs, and from these early communications the stage is set for rapid learning about language.

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