Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) describes the range of needs relating to all aspects of communication – from understanding others to forming sounds, words and sentences to expressing ideas and emotions and using language socially.

The following websites have information available to support you and your child: (Click on the green headers for further information.)

I CAN - The Children's Communication Charity

I CAN describes SLCN as one or more of the following:

• Difficulties with speech sounds
• Difficulties in understanding others
• Difficulties in producing language
• Difficulties in using language appropriately.

I CAN Parents & Carers

I CAN Common Features of SLCN

BBC Tiny Happy People Campaign

Support and advice for parents and carers to help develop communication skills.

BBC Tiny Happy People Campaign

Activities - Tiny Happy People Campaign

Department for Education (DfE) Hungry Little Minds

DfE Hungry Little Minds. Encouraging parents, carers and families to chat, read and play.

DfE Hungry Little Minds

Greater Manchester (GM) 10 Tips for Talking 

The Greater Manchester (GM) 10 Tips for Talking are ten key messages to support the development of language and communication skills for babies and young children and can be used by everyone.

GM 10 Tips for Talking

50 things to do before you're 5

A menu of exciting activities for families in Oldham with young children, providing suggestions for how to have fun and learn at the same time.  50 Things To Do Before You’re Five gives you 50 activities that parents and carers can support their children to try out and repeat. Each of the 50 Things have been carefully developed by education experts and early years practitioners following consultation with parents.  

50 Things