Supporting your child’s learning and development
90% of your child's brain growth happens before the age of 5. Right from the start, all those little moments you spend together with your child are building their brain.
Every smile, cuddle, chat and game makes a huge difference, helping them learn to communicate, develop confidence and make friends.
If your child attends a childcare setting (such as a nursery or childminder), make sure you discuss ideas for activities with them.
You can also find lots of ideas, easy tips and activities you can do together with your child by visiting:
- Best Start in Life
- CBeebies Parenting
- 10 top tips to support early child development from Greater Manchester Combined Authority
We will discuss your child’s development at their 9 month and 2 year development check. However, if you have any concerns please contact your health visitor or call the advice line on 0161 835 6789.
Educational apps
There are many apps labelled as ‘educational’, but you should check that this is the case, as they vary in quality and content.
GOV.UK offer research-based advice to help you choose high-quality apps for your child. You can find more information in GOV.UK's guidance on early years apps.
Stockport Early Years Speech and Language Therapy team
The Stockport Early Years Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) team support young children with their speech, language and communication before they start school.
They work closely with other local services to make sure your child gets the right support. This includes:
- Start Well services
- local nurseries
- other early years professionals
Working together helps SALT understand your child’s needs and support them in the best way.
Your child will be seen in a place that feels comfortable and familiar to them, such as:
- a local Family Hub
- a health centre
- your home
- their nursery
If you have any concerns about your child’s speech, language or communication, call the Start Well Helpline on 0161 835 6789. They will offer advice, reassurance and help you find the right local support.
You can learn more about children’s Speech and Language Therapy on the NHS Stockport website.
