Your child's communication development

As your child grows, you’ll notice their communication develops quickly.

They move from using single words and gestures to understanding more, speaking in sentences and sharing their thoughts and ideas.

What you might notice

From around 2 to 3 years

using more words and starting short sentences
understanding simple instructions
naming familiar objects and people
enjoying songs, rhymes and stories

From around 3 to 4 years

speaking in longer sentences
asking questions like "what?" and "why?"
talking about things that have happened
joining in with conversations and play

All children follow their own path, and progress can come in bursts.

Why communication development matters

Communication helps your child to:

understand the world around them
express their needs and feelings
build relationships with others
develop confidence and learning

These skills support behaviour, learning and friendships as your child grows.

How you can support your child

You don't need lots of equipment or structured activities. Simple, everyday moments make a big difference.

Talk and listen

talk about what you're doing during the day
listen and respond to your child
give them time to respond and to explain what they mean in their own words – don't try to fill the gaps

Read, sing and play

share books and talk about pictures – consider joining one of Oxfordshire's libraries
sing songs and nursery rhymes
use play to build conversation

Follow their lead

notice what your child is interested in
join in and describe what they're doing
keep interactions relaxed and fun

Use simple language and choices

keep sentences simple and clear
repeat words often
encourage choices ("apple or banana?")

Communication develops through everyday interactions – little and often makes a big difference.

Trust your instincts – you know your child best

You may want to speak to someone if:

your child finds it difficult to understand or use words
their speech is hard to follow or not developing
you have any concerns about communication

You don't need to wait. Speak to your health visitor or GP if you have any questions.

Resources and support

Learning conversations and telling stories: 3 to 5 years - Best Start in Life - NHS. Get activities and tips to boost learning, communication and early development
Best Start in Life (NHS): Toddler – trusted advice on development, play, communication, health and everyday routines
Learning conversations and telling stories: 3 to 5 years - get activities and tips to boost learning, communication and early development
Speech and Language UK - advice if parents are concerned about talking, understanding or communication
Speech and Language Therapy - Children's Integrated Therapies - local NHS referral information and support
Contact - advice, support and helplines for families with disabled children
Tiny Happy People (BBC) – ideas, videos and activities to support speech and language
NHS Start for Life – parenting support
Hungry Little Minds (DfE campaign) – simple tips to build language through play
National Literacy Trust (family zone) – early literacy support
BookTrust (free books and story ideas)
Family Information Service - find a range of activities. Meeting new friends and getting out and about can be a great way to build confidence and develop communication skills

Pop into one of our family hubs

Family hubs provide ongoing support after your baby arrives, including activities, family services and opportunities to meet other parents.

Family Information Service

There are many groups, clubs and activities for children and their families across Oxfordshire. Take a look at some of them near you.

Activities for children.

If you feel you need a little extra help

At times, children and families need a bit of extra support – and when that happens, it’s ok to ask for help.

You could be worried about your health or the health of your children, you could have financial worries or be caring for someone. You’re not alone. Take a look at our early help pages for advice on how we can help support you.

graphic showing three balls of different sizes

Your child's social development

Your child is changing fast – and they are finding their own place and their own friendships. Find advice on what to expect and more about the support available.