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My child finds it difficult to communicate their wants and needs

Woman providing support to child

Some children at the early stages of language development are slow to develop ways to communicate what they want or need. This might include developing:

  • Pointing to show you things
  • Pointing or reaching to request items
  • Bringing you things to ask for help, or to share
  • Using their facial expression or gestures to show you what they are thinking and feeling
  • Using words

Children with difficulties expressing themselves may:

  • Cry or get upset, but not show you what the problem is
  • Be at an earlier stage of development than you would expect for their age, for example using pointing rather than words when they are two

Strategies to support developing early communication skills:

Research shows that for children who have difficulties developing early communication skills, how you interact will help them develop.

In some cases, a referral to the NHS Speech and Language Therapy service may be appropriate for assessment and advice. Your Health Visitor, setting or school should be able to help you with this.

Further information to support with communication is also available through:

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