Supporting Speech and Language Development In Early Years Course

Supporting Speech and Language Development in Early Years – Online Course

Course overview
This online course introduces the principles of supporting speech, language and communication in the early years. It helps learners understand typical development, recognise why early communication matters and apply good practice in their day-to-day role. The course takes one hour and is CPD accredited.

Please note: this is an introductory, Level 1 course that builds awareness and foundational knowledge. It does not replace any practical, specialist or role-specific training an employer may require.

What the course covers
– Introduction to early years speech and language development
– The importance of speech, language and communication
– Foundations of speech, language and communication, and why early support matters
– Levels of support and consistent, collaborative practice
– Communication, engagement and workforce development
– Accessibility and inclusion
– Interactions and exploring language
– Creating language-rich environments
– Sensitive language support
– Narrating and extending children’s language
– Listening and understanding
– Stages of attention development

Who is it for?
The course is written at an introductory level and is suitable for people who work with, or support, young children in the UK. It is appropriate for:
– Early years practitioners in nurseries, preschools and childcare centres
– Teachers and teaching assistants
– Speech and language therapists
– Educational support staff, such as learning support assistants and inclusion coordinators
– Parents, carers and guardians

It can be used for induction, refresher training, awareness or to enhance existing knowledge.

Practical benefits
– Understand the core principles and terminology of speech, language and communication
– Recognise the milestones and common difficulties seen in early childhood
– Learn ways to build language-rich, inclusive environments through play
– Understand individual responsibilities and role boundaries
– Gain evidence of awareness and knowledge for inductions and refresher training
– Receive a CPD-accredited certificate for professional development

What learners will be able to do
– Explain key principles and terminology relating to early years speech and language
– Recognise why communication support matters in daily practice
– Identify common risks, concerns and situations linked to speech and language development
– Apply good-practice principles, including language enrichment activities, in practical situations
– Support children from diverse and multilingual backgrounds with sensitivity
– Communicate effectively with colleagues, parents and other professionals
– Recognise when advice, reporting, referral or escalation is needed

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete a quiz at the end of the course. On successful completion, they receive a CPD-accredited certificate, which can be downloaded or printed at home for free. A hard copy can also be requested for delivery to a home or work address. Unlimited quiz retakes are included, and the course is allocated instantly after purchase. A complimentary learner management system lets organisations view course progress, quiz results and certification, and a compliance matrix is available to support audits and inspections.