NURSERIES in East Ayrshire have been taking part in an initiative to improve youngsters' language and communication.
Seven early years establishments are currently involved in the Chatting Together programme, where the teams are sharing the four most important things that adults can do every day to nurture little ones’ early language and communication.
They are get down to my level, watch and wait before joining in, copy my sounds and words and add a bit more, and talk to me whatever we are doing.
Auchinleck, Bellsbank, Dalrymple, Flowerbank, Galston, Hillbank and Patna Early Childhood Centres (ECC) took part in the East Ayrshire Chatting Together sessions, which focused on strengthening early language and communication through consistent, reflective practice.
A key theme has been the importance of responsive interactions—staff getting down to a child’s level, watching, waiting, following the child’s lead, and using comments to extend language rather than relying on questions.
Practitioners have engaged with practical improvement methods, particularly through the use of video and self-evaluation.
Staff have highlighted practical learning, such as the impact of being at child level, using richer language, and adapting activities to promote interaction.
Follow the rollout at the seven establishments, the plan is for the programme to be taken to all ECCs in East Ayrshire who support two-year-old children.
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