Language enrichment at home for children
Last edited: 22/08/2024
A story a day
Reading is a magical way to connect with your child but also builds vocabulary and language.
- There is no 'right' way to do it: Whether it's in one language or several different languages, at the same time every day or whenever it fits in, every moment counts when you read with your child.
- No need to sit still! Your child doesn’t have to be right next to you, just having a book nearby while they play is enough.
- Make books a part of daily life: Read for a minute a day or an hour…… Every little effort makes a big impact.
Be the narrator
Encourage and enjoy your child’s creativity by joining in their world.
- Try to stay in the moment: Comment on the play without changing the activity. Let them know you value their ideas.
- Boost language skills: Narrating play helps your child develop both understanding and language use.
Let your child take the lead
Child-led play is powerful learning.
- Follow their curiosity: When children play in ways that interest them, they learn the most.
- Build communication skills: Letting your child lead helps them express themselves and understand the world around them.
Sing, dance and rap
Singing and dancing are fun and educational.
- Singing supports clear speaking: Singing strengthens lips and tongues, aiding in language development.
- It expands vocabulary: Singing introduces new words and rhymes.
- It helps to build coordination and focus: Action songs improve motor skills and concentration.
- It boosts memory: Recalling lyrics and tunes improves cognitive function.
Get dramatic
Spark creativity with drama activities. It’s fun to use puppets and toys too!
- Make up stories and act them out: It’s a fun way to encourage imagination and creative thinking.
Need some ideas? Check out these resources: Copy of Drama games pack (squarespace.com) and Drama Games 2 (squarespace.com)
Contact us
For more details please see the locations listed at the bottom of the page.
East Kent
Thanet, Canterbury, Herne Bay, Whitstable and Faversham
0300 123 8112
kentchft.cteast-admin@nhs.net
Kent Children’s Therapies, Greenbanks, Westfield Road, Garlinge
Margate CT9 5PA
North and west Kent
Dartford, Gravesham and Swanley
Edenbridge, Maidstone, Malling, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and Sevenoaks
0300 123 7004
kentchft.ct-nwkent@nhs.net
Kent Children’s Therapies, Heathside Centre, Heath Road, Coxheath
Maidstone ME17 4AH
This information should only be followed on the advice of a healthcare professional.
Do you have feedback about our health services?
0800 030 4550
Text 07899 903499
Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm
kentchft.PALS@nhs.net
kentcht.nhs.uk/PALS
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust
Trinity House, 110-120 Upper Pemberton
Ashford
Kent
TN25 4AZ
Donate today, and help the NHS go above and beyond. Visit kentcht.nhs.uk/icare
If you need communication support or this information in another format, please ask a member of staff or contact us using the details above.