Kathryn, Chris & Rose

“We loved Tiny Steps to Talking and wanted to try Home Talk to build on the skills we’d already learnt and go a little more in depth. With it being one-to-one sessions, we thought it would be perfect to learn how to give Rose more specific support.”

Home Talk involves up to six home visits with an experienced early years worker who has enhanced training in supporting language development. Kathryn, Chris and Rose received home visits from Penny, who they had already met at Tiny Steps to Talking.

 “Penny was really good at working around Chris’ shifts to accommodate us. Dads don’t often have as much opportunity to join in, so it was really nice that he was there to have a go and be part of it.”

Penny took the time to get to know Rose in her own home, then worked with Kathryn and Chris to try new ways to help Rose’s language development.

Together, they went through the Home Talk Workbook and Penny explained the building blocks of language.

“As a parent, there’s always a lot going on and you have to do so many different things. Speech and language wasn’t something we’d really had time to think about so it was really helpful to learn how it develops in a child’s brain. Penny was great at going through all the information with us and explaining things really clearly so that we could understand.”

Penny also shared tips and activities that Kathryn and Chris could try out in between sessions. These included ideas to support Rose through play, books, songs, and in her everyday routine. 

“Chris and I really enjoyed the sessions and we found the techniques we learnt really helpful. Little things like waiting ten seconds, repeating, and allowing Rose time to think, made a real difference.

“We’ve seen a massive difference in Rose. As parents, we’ve got a lot more knowledge too. We’re better equipped and educated to be able to support Rose with her language needs. She’s really thriving.”

 
After completing their sessions, Kathryn and Chris went on to attend our speech and language course for parents with children ages 2½-4 years, Let’s Talk with Under 5s.