What is it?
Chatterbox is a speech and language programme which is part of Warrington’s Early Years Speech and Language Pathway. The programme uses WELLCOMM strategies to support children’s early language skills. (WELLCOMM is a nationally recognised speech & language toolkit that includes screening tools and activities).
Sessions will discuss how children’s speech is formed and developed through fun play activities.
What will I get out of the sessions?
You will learn different ways of helping your child’s speech, language and communication development at home through everyday conversation and practical fun activities.
Who is it for?
For parents/carers and their children aged 2 to 2 ½ years.
How many sessions are there?
Chatterbox runs for five weeks per block, each session is 45 minutes.
All children referred onto the Chatterbox Programme will attend a Welcome to Chatterbox session where parents/carers find out more about the programme and can discuss their child’s needs with a Children’s Centre Support Worker. If it is felt that the Chatterbox Programme may not be suitable you will be signposted to alternative groups.
How can I access the activity?
Professional referral only
Referrals will completed by Health following a 2 year development review. You can also self-refer or request a referral from another professional if you have concerns about your child’s speech and language development.
How will this support my child to be nursery/school ready?
Personal, Social & Emotional development:
Promoting social skills by learning how to take turns and share, building confidence in their ability to communicate.
Physical development:
The activities will encourage children to use fine and gross motor skills which will support them to develop spatial awareness and hand eye coordination. These are important elements to support the development of reading & writing skills in the future.
Communication and language:
Develop attention & listening skills, follow simple instructions, begin to add words to their vocabulary and engage in short conversations.