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Speech, language and communication toolkit (for parents)

This Speech, Language and Communication Toolkit has been developed by Speech and Language Therapists to help you support your child’s communication at home. Whether you’re looking for quick tips or detailed guidance, you’ll find practical advice, videos, and resources tailored to your child’s needs.

We know that communication is key to learning, making friends, and expressing feelings. That’s why this toolkit is designed to give you simple, effective strategies to use in everyday life—whether your child is just starting to talk or needs extra support with their speech and language skills.

What is speech, language and communication?

How does communication develop?

The toolkits cover:

  • How Does Communication Develop? – Learn how your child’s communication skills grow over time
  • Supporting Language Development – Find age-specific advice and activities to help your child’s language skills
  • Multilingualism – Support your child’s development if they are learning more than one language
  • Top Tips for Communication (0-5 years)
  • Top Tips for Communication (5-11 years
  • Understanding Speech & Language Difficulties
  • Social & Emotional Development
  • Supporting Transition into Secondary School
  • Services Available to Seek Help

How to navigate the toolkit

Select one of the toolkit sections to get started and explore ways to support your child’s communication journey:

Front cover for Everyday tips toolkit

Front cover for Language journey toolkit

Front cover for Everything you need to know toolkit

Front page of seeking help toolkit

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Devon County Council runs a confidential secure text messaging service for parents of children aged 0-19 years called ChatHealth. The service operates Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm, excluding bank holidays. All texts will be responded to by a public health nurse (health visitor/school nurse) within 24 hours. Outside of the service working hours, you’ll receive a message back to inform you that your text will be responded to once the line reopens. You can also call our Public Health Nursing hubs on the numbers listed below.

If you are concerned about the safety of a child in Devon, contact our Multi-Agency Safeguarding Hub (MASH) on 0345 155 1071 or email mashsecure@devon.gov.uk with as much information as possible.

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Page last reviewed: 17-02-2025

Next review due: 17-02-2028