Early language skills are the building blocks for learning, playing, making friends, and understanding the world.

Some children may need extra help with speaking, listening, or understanding words - and that's where Early Language Intervention Measure Tools come in. These tools are used by professionals in nurseries, pre-schools and early years settings to check how a child is developing in their speech and language, and to decide if any extra support is needed. 

Early Language Intervention Measure Tools help to:

• Spot early signs that a child may need help with talking or understanding.
• Track progress in communication over time.
• Plan support for children who may be falling behind.
• Make sure the right help is offered early - before problems grow.

They are simple checklists and observations that look at how your child listens, speaks, plays, and responds to others. 

These tools are used with children aged 2 to 5, especially if:

There are concerns about their speech or language development

• They are not talking as expected for their age.
• They seem to have trouble understanding instructions or joining in with others.
• They may be at risk of speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

Using these tools early means children can get the right support in nursery, at home, or from specialist services.

The tools are used by:

• Early years staff (e.g. nursery practitioners or childminders)
  
• Speech and language therapists
  
• Sometimes health visitors or members of the Early Years SEND Team
  

Staff will talk to you about any concerns and keep you informed every step of the way. 

As part of Croydon's early support offer, early years settings and health visitors may also work together to carry out an Integrated Review around the time your child is aged 2 to 3.

This combines the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) Progress Check at age 2, and the Health Visitor 2-Year-Old Review.

The aim is to bring together education and health insights so that you and professionals have a clear picture of your child’s development and any support they may need.

Please click here for more information.

If the tools or review show your child may benefit from extra support, the nursery or setting will:

• Talk to you about what they’ve observed.
• Use targeted activities or small group sessions to help your child.
• Refer to a Speech and Language Therapist or other professionals if needed.
• Work with the Early Years SEND Team to create a personalised plan.

You’ll be included in decisions and supported to help your child at home, too. 

You can speak to your child’s nursery key worker, childminder or health visitor or contact the Early Years SEND Team.

Email: EarlyYearsSENDTeam@croydon.gov.uk

Phone: 020 8760 5787