Strategies for Developing Speaking and Listening Skills in Young Children

Introduction

Language and communication are at the heart of children’s early learning experiences. From birth, children begin to communicate through sounds, gestures, facial expressions and, eventually, spoken words. These early experiences form the foundation of their cognitive, social, and emotional development. Within the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), communication and language are regarded as one of the three prime areas of learning, emphasising their essential role in a child's readiness for school and lifelong learning.

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The EYFS framework sets out clear aims to support practitioners in developing children's speaking and listening skills, acknowledging that these abilities are crucial not only for academic progress but also for emotional well-being and social competence. This article explores a wide range of practical and evidence-based strategies for supporting young children's language development in early years settings, with a particular focus on developing speaking and listening skills.

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Understanding Language Development in the Early Years

Before implementing strategies, it is vital for practitioners to understand how language typically develops in young children. Infants begin by making cooing and babbling sounds, which gradually evolve into recognisable words and then more complex sentences. By the age of five, most children can use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to their age.

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Key milestones include:

• 0–12 months: Babbling, making eye contact, responding to sounds
  
  
• 12–24 months: First words, simple two-word phrases
  
  
• 2–3 years: Vocabulary explosion, forming simple sentences
  
  
• 3–5 years: More sophisticated sentence structures, storytelling, understanding and following instructions
  
  

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Every child develops at their own pace, and early years practitioners must be attuned to the individual needs, backgrounds, and home languages of the children in their care.

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Creating a Language-Rich Environment

One of the most effective ways to support children’s communication skills is by creating an environment rich in language. This means surrounding children with opportunities to hear, use and experiment with words throughout the day.

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Use of Visuals and Print

Displaying pictures, labels, signs and symbols throughout the setting helps reinforce vocabulary. Having labelled areas such as “book corner,” “home role-play,” or “creative table” encourages children to make connections between spoken and written language.

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Interactive Displays

Children learn language through interaction. Displays that prompt questions or exploration, such as “What’s your favourite animal?” or “Tell us about your weekend,” invite verbal responses and encourage children to express themselves.

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Background Noise

Minimising background noise from radios or loud equipment supports better listening and reduces distractions, making it easier for children to concentrate on speech sounds and engage in meaningful conversations.

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Modelling Language Through Everyday Interactions

Children learn to talk by hearing language used in context. One of the most powerful tools available to practitioners is the act of modelling language through everyday interactions.

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Parallel Talk and Self-Talk

• Self-talk involves adults narrating their own actions: “I’m putting the red block on top of the blue one.”
  
  
• Parallel talk is describing what the child is doing: “You’re stirring the mixture with the big spoon!”
  
  

Both approaches expose children to vocabulary and sentence structures they may not yet use independently.

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Repetition and Expansion

Repeating a child’s statement and adding more detail helps develop grammar and vocabulary. If a child says, “Dog run,” the practitioner might respond, “Yes, the dog is running very fast.” This not only validates the child’s attempt but also introduces richer language.

Encouraging Turn-Taking and Active Listening

Listening is a key part of communication, and it is closely linked with speaking. Developing strong listening skills helps children understand others, follow instructions and participate in group activities.

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Circle Time Activities

Group times provide structured opportunities for children to practise turn-taking, listen to others, and respond appropriately. Songs, rhymes, and story-sharing sessions build concentration and receptive language skills.

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Listening Games

Games such as “Simon Says,” sound lotto, or musical statues are playful ways to enhance children’s auditory discrimination and attention skills. These games also promote memory and sequencing—crucial components of effective communication.

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Pausing for Response

Adults should resist the urge to immediately respond or correct a child’s speech. Pausing allows children to process what they hear and formulate their own replies, thereby strengthening their expressive language and confidence.

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Supporting Vocabulary Development

A strong vocabulary is a key predictor of later reading and academic success. Early years settings play a vital role in expanding children’s word knowledge.

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Introducing New Words in Context

Rather than teaching vocabulary in isolation, introduce new words naturally during activities. For example, while planting seeds, use words such as “soil,” “sprout,” “roots,” and “watering can.” Repeating these words over time in various contexts reinforces understanding.

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Storytelling and Reading Aloud

Books expose children to a broader and more complex range of language than daily conversation. Daily shared reading sessions should be interactive, with adults asking open-ended questions, encouraging predictions, and linking the story to the child’s own experiences.

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Word of the Week

Introducing a “word of the week” and using it in different contexts can spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Displaying the word with images and using it in songs or routines helps children internalise it.

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Role-Play and Imaginative Play

Pretend play offers a rich opportunity for language use and social interaction. Children take on different roles, negotiate scenarios, and solve problems using language.

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Home Corners and Themed Areas

Areas such as a pretend kitchen, doctor’s surgery, or travel agency inspire children to use specific vocabulary. For example, a vet role-play area might prompt words like “appointment,” “thermometer,” or “medicine.”

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Dress-Up and Props

Costumes, puppets, and themed props add excitement to play and encourage children to speak in character. This builds confidence and allows them to experiment with different styles of speech, such as questioning, explaining, or instructing.

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Supporting Children with English as an Additional Language (EAL)

Children who are learning English as an additional language may take time to develop their speaking skills. EYFS practitioners must create inclusive environments that support bilingual development and encourage communication in all forms.

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Valuing the Home Language

Allowing children to use their first language at nursery supports their identity and overall development. Bilingual staff, translated materials, and dual-language books can help bridge understanding.

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Visual Supports and Gestures

Using pictures, signs, and actions helps children understand what is being said. Visual timetables and emotion cards can be especially helpful for EAL learners.

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Peer Learning

Pairing EAL children with confident communicators encourages modelling and social integration. Buddy systems can be particularly effective during routines like snack time or free play.

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Observing and Assessing Communication Skills

To tailor support effectively, practitioners must regularly observe and assess each child’s communication development.

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Using EYFS Assessment Tools

Observation checkpoints outlined in the EYFS framework help identify children who may need additional support. Tools like the “Every Child a Talker” (ECaT) programme provide useful guidance for practitioners.

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Identifying Speech and Language Needs

Some children may have speech sound difficulties, language delays, or hearing issues. Early identification and referral to speech and language therapy services ensure timely support.

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Involving Parents and Carers

Parents are a child’s first teachers. Regular communication with families helps reinforce language development at home. Sharing ideas for songs, games, or reading activities can empower parents to support their child’s progress.

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Embedding Language in Daily Routines

Opportunities for speaking and listening should be embedded across the day. Children learn best when language is part of meaningful experiences.

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Meal and Snack Times

These moments are ideal for informal conversations. Adults can ask open-ended questions like, “What did you do this morning?” or “What’s your favourite fruit?”

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Outdoor Play

Exploring nature and playing outside often leads to rich conversations. Talking about the weather, observing insects, or building dens together stimulates vocabulary and imaginative language.

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Tidy-Up Time

Simple instructions and songs used during transitions support listening and understanding. Repeating short phrases like “Find the red bricks” or “Let’s sort the toys” reinforces comprehension.

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Using Music, Songs, and Rhymes

Singing is a fun and effective way to develop language. Rhymes help children hear syllables and recognise patterns in speech.

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Repetitive Songs

Songs such as “Old MacDonald,” “Twinkle Twinkle,” and “The Wheels on the Bus” contain predictable phrases and actions that reinforce vocabulary.

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Action Rhymes

Combining movement with language, as in “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes,” helps children connect words with meaning. This supports memory and physical development too.

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Rhythm and Rhyme

Learning to hear rhyme is an important pre-reading skill. Encouraging children to create their own rhyming strings or complete missing words supports phonological awareness.

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Practitioner Language and Communication Strategies

How adults communicate sets the tone for the entire setting. Practitioners must be conscious of their language, tone, and body language.

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Open-Ended Questions

Rather than asking yes/no questions, use prompts like “What do you think will happen next?” or “How did you make that?” These questions encourage critical thinking and fuller responses.

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Active Listening

Giving children your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and responding thoughtfully shows that their voice matters. This builds trust and encourages further interaction.

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Scaffolding Conversations

Practitioners should support, but not dominate, conversations. Giving children time to speak, adding to their ideas, and gently correcting grammar within a sentence can all support language growth.

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Also Read: - Specific Areas of Learning in EYFS

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Conclusion: Laying the Foundations for Future Success

Strong speaking and listening skills are central to a child's overall development. By using a wide range of strategies—modelling language, encouraging conversation, using books and stories, promoting imaginative play, and involving families—early years practitioners can help every child become a confident communicator. These skills not only prepare children for reading and writing but also support their social and emotional well-being, helping them navigate the world with curiosity and confidence.

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Language and Communication at Little Mowgli Nursery, Leyland

At Little Mowgli nursery in Leyland, supporting children’s language and communication is a key priority embedded in every aspect of daily practice. The team places a strong emphasis on creating a nurturing, language-rich environment where children feel confident to express themselves. Whether through small group storytelling, interactive displays, or engaging role-play areas, Little Mowgli provides diverse opportunities for children to develop their speaking and listening skills. Experienced staff model rich vocabulary and active listening while encouraging meaningful conversations with every child. By working closely with families and embracing children’s individual language journeys, Little Mowgli helps lay the foundation for confident, articulate learners who are ready to thrive in their future learning.

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