Language and Play

The Language and Play programme is designed to give information to parents/carers of 0-3 year olds and focuses on communication, language, literacy and play. The programme was developed in response to the concerns expressed by headteachers about young children's speaking and listening skills on entry to school. The programme is intended to complement the work currently undertaken by early years organisations such as Bookstart, Mudiad Ysgolion Meithrin, Twf, Wales PPA and Sure Start. The programme is a means of reaching families outside Sure Start areas and can be used in parent and toddler groups, playgroups, clinics, family centres, nurseries and schools. Over six thousand parents and young children, across Wales, took part in a Language and Play programme in the first year 2003/04.

Aims

• To enhance language development from 0 - 3

• To help parents explore ways of playing with and listening and talking to their children

• To familiarise parents with Welsh phrases, rhymes and songs.

• To encourage parents to share books and stories with babies and young children.

• To develop the understanding and confidence of parents.

Language and Play Coordinators have been appointed in each local authority area in Wales to develop the programme. If you want to find out more then call 020 7440 6516, or email languageandplay@basic-skills.co.uk .