Top Resources for Speech and Language Development

Top Resources for Speech and Language Development

Supporting your child’s speech and language development is a rewarding journey, and at North West Speech and Language Therapy, we’re here to help every step of the way. While books, toys, and apps are wonderful tools, your child’s best resource is you, their parent or carer. Engaging with your child through conversation, play, and shared activities is the most effective way to nurture communication skills.

Below, we share some of our favourite resources to enhance speech and language learning at home and school.

Books

Reading together is one of the best ways to boost language and vocabulary development.

  1. “Dear Zoo” by Rod Campbell
    This lift-the-flap book helps build vocabulary while engaging children in interactive play.
  2. “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle
    A rhythmic, repetitive book that supports sentence structure and language patterns.
  3. Phoneme-Focused Storybooks
    Books designed to focus on specific speech sounds are helpful for children working on articulation.

Apps

Technology can bring learning to life with interactive features that reinforce speech therapy goals.

  1. Articulation Station
    A comprehensive app for practicing speech sounds through fun, structured games.
  2. Speech Blubs
    Designed for younger children, this app uses engaging activities to motivate speech practice.
  3. Proloquo2Go
    Ideal for children needing additional communication support, this AAC app promotes expressive language.

Toys and Games

Playtime is a powerful opportunity for language learning.

  1. Mr. Potato Head
    Great for teaching vocabulary like body parts, action words, and turn-taking.
  2. Guess Who?
    Helps children practice forming questions, descriptive language, and reasoning.
  3. Story Cubes
    Encourages creativity and storytelling, helping children build sentences and narratives.

Websites and Online Tools

Explore these resources for ideas, activities, and expert guidance:

  1. ICAN Talking Point
    Talking Point offers free advice and tools for families supporting children’s communication needs.
  2. BBC Tiny Happy People
    Focused on early development, this site features activity ideas, expert tips, and videos for parents.
  3. Twinkl Speech Therapy Resources
    Packed with downloadable worksheets, flashcards, and games to support therapy at home or in school.

You Are Your Child’s Best Toy

While tools and resources are helpful, nothing replaces the value of your interaction with your child. Everyday moments like talking during meals, narrating daily routines, and playing simple games together are powerful ways to boost language skills. Remember, your voice, expressions, and responses make you their favourite and most impactful "toy."

Tips for Maximizing These Resources

  • Be consistent: Short, regular sessions are better than long, infrequent ones.
  • Follow their lead: Build on your child’s interests to keep them engaged and motivated.
  • Celebrate success: Praise effort and progress, no matter how small.

Need More Support?

At North West Speech and Language Therapy, we’re passionate about helping children achieve their communication potential. If you’d like to book an initial assessment or learn more about our services, visit our contact us page.

Together, we can help your child build their confidence and communication skills!

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