This page is part of the Speech and Language Therapy - Paediatric Community Services information
Do you ever get the feeling your child knows what they want to say but can't get the words out? Does your child use lots of naming words but doesn't tend to use other types of words like ‘doing’ words and describing words? Have you noticed their sentences do not flow very easily?
Learning to talk develops gradually and there are many skills children need to develop before they say their first words. They will need to develop skills such as the ability to pay attention to you and their surroundings, playing with toys and people, understanding routines and the words you use, copying and then using gestures whilst enjoying the back and forth nature of communicating.
Expressive language means being able to put thoughts into words and sentences, in a way that makes sense and is grammatically accurate.
Children need lots of opportunities to try out their new skills and this is something you can provide during your everyday shared experiences e.g. tidying up, sorting the washing, going to the shops.
Last updated: 6 August 2025 at 12:33