Mon 16 Sep 2024
As early years providers, we know that the foundations of learning are laid in the early years of a child’s life. The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) plays a pivotal role in guiding how we can shape the development of children, particularly in the areas of language and communication. At Hello Mums, we’re passionate about supporting nurseries and childcarers in helping children achieve the best start in life.
Why Focus on Language and Communication?
Ofsted has highlighted that effective communication and language skills are crucial for future learning and life success. Children who develop strong language abilities in their early years tend to do better academically and socially as they progress through school. This is why it’s so important for nurseries to tailor their approach in line with the EYFS to ensure every child is given the best opportunity to thrive.
Here at Hello Mums, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful a targeted approach can be. When working with nurseries and childcarers, we emphasise the following key strategies:
1. Create Opportunities for Interaction: Children learn language through social interactions. Encourage group play and one-on-one conversations, using clear and expressive language.
2. Reading Aloud: Make reading an integral part of the daily routine. Not only does this help with language, but it also fosters a love for books and storytelling, helping children to build their vocabulary and imagination.
3. Use the EYFS Framework: The EYFS provides a robust framework for nurturing language skills through structured and free-flowing activities. Focus on the “Communication and Language” area of learning, which outlines age-appropriate expectations.
At Hello Mums, we connect nurseries with qualified and unqualified childcarers who understand the importance of language and communication. Our Hello Mums Academy offers Continuous Professional Development (CPD) courses that keep carers up-to-date with effective teaching practices.
In a fast-evolving childcare sector, our personalised approach and dedicated team ensure that every childcarer is well-prepared to support your nursery in maximising learning outcomes for the children in your care.