Early Language Delays in the UK

Between birth and the age of two years, babies and toddlers develop their communication skills. Not only do these skills allow children to start speaking their first words and making simple sentences, they also equip them with the ability to express feelings and understand the world around them. Early language skills underpin subsequent reading and writing skills; therefore, children’s early language development has a significant impact on future school performance. Without language and communication skills, children are unlikely to reach their full potential.

Save the Children will use this report as evidence for the need to develop a programme, based on evidence and existing effective practice, which works to ensure that children living in poverty have an appropriate home learning environment, offering them the opportunity to develop the language and communication skills which will equip them to arrive at school ready to learn and achieve and break the cycle of poverty for good.