Communication skills for preschool

Listening and attention: children listen attentively in a range of situations. They listen to stories, accurately anticipate key events and respond to what they hear with relevant comments, questions, or actions. They give their attention to what others say and respond appropriately, while engaged in another activity.

Understanding: Children follow instructions involving several ideas or actions.  They answer ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions about their experiences and in response to stories or events.

Speaking: children express themselves effectively, showing awareness of listeners’ needs.  They use past, present and future forms accurately when talking about events that have happened or are to happen in the future.  They develop their own narratives and explanations by connecting ideas or events

Click on the subsections to find helpful information and guides.

If you require further support and advice please see the Children and Yong Persons Integrated Therapies leaflet here. You can also contact your local children's centre for speech and language drop-in sessions.