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Best Start in Speech, Language and Communication
The Best Start in Speech, Language and Communication programme supports health visitors and practitioners working with pre-school children and their families to build strong foundations in early speech, language and communication (SLC). The programme consists of three elearning modules which can be completed in any order and require no prerequisites. Across the learning, participants are introduced to typical SLC development, key milestones, early indicators of speech, language and communication needs (SLCN), risk factors, and approaches to working effectively with parents and carers. The programme also explores the home learning environment, behaviour change models, and practical assessment tools. This programme is intended for health visitors and early years professionals involved in early identification and support of SLC needs.
Learners will gain an understanding of how to recognise emerging concerns in speech, language and communication; how to work collaboratively with families to support development; and how to use evidence-based resources to promote positive outcomes. The programme’s three modules cover: working with families to support SLC development; supporting children with identified SLC needs; and early identification of SLCN and ways to guide and empower families to respond. Additional learning resources include a Parent Facing Pathway for use in conversations with families, Public Health England’s SLC Health Visitor Train the Trainer materials for local dissemination, the Early Language Identification Measure and Intervention (ELIM) training resources, and an All Our Health session on Speech, Language and Communication.
The ability to communicate underpins children’s development, wellbeing and long-term outcomes. Early speech, language and communication skills are crucial, yet delays often go unrecognised until they begin to impact learning, relationships and health. Early identification and supportive partnership working with parents can significantly improve a child’s developmental trajectory and help them achieve their full potential. This programme has been developed in partnership with Health Education England elearning for healthcare, Public Health England and the Department for Education, reflecting a shared national commitment to promoting high-quality early SLC support. The programme aligns with wider NHS priorities around improving early childhood development, reducing inequalities, and strengthening preventive, evidence-based practice across health visiting and early years services.