Speech, language and communication for early years

Health visiting

If you’re wondering about your child’s speech or language, your local health visiting team is a great place to start. You can call, text or email them through the Kent Community Health website, or just wait until you see them in person.

To give your child the best support, your health visitor may use a tool called the Early Language Identification Measure (ELIM), which helps spot any early communication needs.

Health clinics

Health clinics can give you advice and support about your child’s development. Most are drop‑in, though some might need you to book ahead. You can arrange face‑to‑face support through the Kent Community Health face-to-face webpage.

Family Hubs

Your local Family Hub runs lots of groups and sessions that help with early speech and language, like:

• Baby group
• Baby massage classes
• Stay and Play (messy play, baby sign, music and movement)
• Book Start – Little Book Worms

Your library also has fun activities such as:

• Baby rhyme time
• Playground sessions
• Storytime clubs

Developing speech, language and communication courses available at Family Hubs include:

• Little Talkers
• The Communication Tree (accessed via referral)
• Making it Real

Early years settings

If your child is in nursery, pre‑school or with a childminder and you’re worried about their communication, chat with the staff. They’ll use the Starting Strong guide to support your child’s speech and interaction.

Some settings also have staff trained in programmes like Early Talk Boost.

Speech and language therapy services

Speech and language therapy support is available through:

• Swale children's therapy
• The Pod children's therapies
• Talking walk-in sessions at your local Family Hub

Information and resources

• Born to Move app -  fun ways to help your child learn through play
• Kent Baby website -  support from pregnancy to school age
• BBC Tiny Happy People - simple play ideas to build language
• NHS Start for Life - everyday tips to help your child learn to talk

Special educational needs

If your child has a disability or needs extra help with learning, they may have special educational needs. Learn more about types of special educational needs if you think your child may need extra help.

You can find support on the SEND Information Hub, including:

• Support for children under 5 with SEND, including the Kent Portage Team who can work with families to plan play activities.
• Support for parents with SEND children.
• Specialist Teaching and Learning Services (STLS)
• SEND speech, language and communication needs resources.