Listening and Talking More

Listening and Talking More is about having conversations with your child and making language fun. Talking together helps your child learn new sounds and words, and practise taking turns and paying attention.

Below are some resources that offer simple, practical ideas to support your child’s listening, talking and connection through everyday play, reading and shared moments — from babies through to preschoolers.

Watch real-life examples

Following Your Child’s Lead

Singing songs together is a way to make language fun. Watch how Mum sings while Emily does the actions.

Tips and resources:
Babies (7–17 months)

Connecting and communicating (video)

Simple ideas for encouraging your baby to communicate.

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Learning through play (video)

Play ideas that build early listening and talking skills with your baby.

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Play ideas for baby talking and reading: in pictures

Simple ways to talk, play and share books together.

See picture guide

Tips and resources:
Toddlers (18 – 35 months)

Connecting and communicating: 18–24 months (video)

Everyday ideas for helping your toddler listen, talk and connect.

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Play ideas for toddler talking and reading: in pictures

Everyday ideas to build words and understanding.

See picture guide

Tips and resources:
Preschoolers

Talking and listening activity: children 3–6 years

Ideas for practising listening and turn-taking.

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Tips and resources:
All ages

Communicating well with babies and children: tips

Everyday ideas for listening and talking together.

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Telling stories with children (video)

Sharing stories to build language and confidence.

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