How We Support Early Communication and Language in Babies

From your baby’s very first coos and gurgles, they’re beginning a beautiful journey into communication. At our nursery, we know that even before they can speak, babies are listening, watching, and learning how to interact with the world around them. That’s why supporting early communication and language is a key part of what we do—every single day.

Why Early Communication Matters

The first year of life is full of brain development. Babies are soaking up sounds, expressions, rhythms, and tones long before they can talk. These early experiences build the foundation for future language, confidence, and connection.

At nursery, we focus on responsive, nurturing interactions that help each baby feel heard, understood, and loved. This helps them develop not just language—but the desire to communicate.

Singing: Language Through Music

You’ll often hear gentle singing in our baby room—and that’s no accident. Songs and nursery rhymes are incredibly powerful for developing language.

• The rhythm and repetition help babies recognise sounds and patterns.

• Action songs like “Wind the Bobbin Up” support listening and motor skills.

• Singing face-to-face strengthens eye contact and emotional connection.

Babies love the comfort and predictability of familiar songs—and we love watching them join in with little smiles, claps, and wiggles!

Story Time: Building Bonds and Words

Even the tiniest babies benefit from daily story time. We use bright, engaging books with simple language, textures, and clear images. When we read, we go slowly, use expressive voices, and make sure babies can see our faces and the book.

This helps babies:

• Develop listening and attention skills

• Hear a wide range of words and tones

• Build early interest in books and storytelling

We also encourage parents to continue story time at home—it’s a lovely way to bond and build vocabulary.

Baby Signing: Giving Babies a Voice Before Words

We use simple baby signing (such as Makaton or BSL signs) alongside speech to help babies express themselves before they’re able to speak.

Common signs like “milk,” “more,” “finished,” and “please” give babies a way to communicate their needs and feelings, which can:

• Reduce frustration

• Boost confidence

• Support earlier understanding of language

Signing doesn’t delay speech—it actually supports it by reinforcing meaning through gesture, sound, and context.

One-to-One Interaction: At the Heart of It All

Most importantly, we spend lots of quiet, focused time with each baby—talking, listening, copying sounds, naming objects, and simply being present.

These gentle, one-to-one moments:

• Encourage turn-taking and eye contact

• Build trust and emotional security

• Help babies feel valued and understood

We talk to babies as we change nappies, feed, play, and cuddle—because every interaction is a chance to connect and communicate.

Every Baby, Every Day

Communication and language development starts long before a child says their first word. At nursery, we nurture this development by tuning in to each baby’s unique way of expressing themselves, and by creating a calm, language-rich environment where they can thrive.

We’re not just teaching words—we’re building relationships, supporting self-expression, and giving your child the tools to connect with the world.

And we think that’s pretty amazing!