Learning, Play & Development
Toddlers - Preschoolers

How do you support language development in toddlers and preschoolers?

Updated 14 October 2026

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Children's language skills develop through conversations, storytelling, play and meaningful interactions with the people around them. As children grow, they build vocabulary, confidence and communication skills that help them express ideas, ask questions and connect with others.

Language development happens through repeated exposure to words, sounds, gestures and meaningful interactions. Everyday experiences such as talking, singing, reading books, sharing stories, asking questions and participating in conversations all help build communication, literacy and learning skills.

At BestStart, our teachers create language-rich environments where children are encouraged to communicate in ways that suit their stage of development. We introduce new words through play and everyday experiences, respond to children's ideas and interests, and support confidence in both verbal and non-verbal communication.

Good to know

  • Reading with children regularly can help build vocabulary, listening skills and a love of stories.
  • Children often develop language skills at different rates, and both verbal and non-verbal communication are important parts of development.
  • Supporting a child's home language helps build identity, belonging and confidence while also supporting overall language development.
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