English Skill : “ Speak clearly to be understood ”

“Being able to speak clearly is extremely important in childcare. We look after a broad range of children, including those whose first language isn’t English and those with speech and language delays. We therefore need to be able to communicate at a level that each child understands and that’s appropriate to their age. It’s really important to use the correct words and phraseology, so that children develop a good grasp of the English language.”

“Speaking clearly and making sure that the child understands me is particularly important when we are outside in the field or playground – it’s essential for the child’s safety as well as their general wellbeing. It’s also essential to be able to communicate clearly with parents, other staff here and, at times, other professionals.”