What is Talking Tots and Babies?
The National Literacy Trust in Nottingham developed ‘Talking Tots and Babies’, a 6-week programme for parents, carers and their 0 to 4-year-olds to support children not accessing formal nursery provision. The programme supports language development through stories, songs, and play, encouraging parents to engage in language activities at home and has been running since June 2024.
It was designed following research, commissioned by Small Steps Big Changes (SSBC), into improving attendance and engagement in activities for parents to support the development of their child’s speech, language and communication.
A key aim was to encourage multi-lingual storytelling and song time in the home. Many parents and carers felt that they should only speak in English to their children, but we shared information and evidence - as well as our own experiences and practice - to highlight the positive impact of reading, storytelling, and singing in any language.
What was the impact?
Feedback showed that Talking Tots and Babies affected positive behaviour change, especially with increased parental confidence to support their child’s language and continued attendance at events that support child development.
All activities included a hands-on, practical element. Books and props were particularly well-received, as were age-specific tips around using them.
At the end of the programme parents said:
“These sessions have made such a difference to me. All the things we’ve learned, I have been doing at home. My daughter was a Covid baby and wouldn’t interact. Now she socially interacts.”
“I have seen huge improvement in her speech and we’ve learned so much that I can use what I’ve learned out and about each day.”
Parents most enjoyed singing, the shared group experience and socialising, as well as learning from experienced programme leaders.
What's next for the Talking Tots and Babies programme?
As a result of high demand and the evidence from the participants and observations of the sessions, the Nottingham Family Hub is funding three further Talking Tots and Babies programmes for 3 to 4-year-olds alongside separate sessions for 0 to 2 year olds which are supported by SSBC, part of A Better Start, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund.
Talking Tots and Babies was selected as a finalist in the Working with Parents category at the National Nursery World Awards 2024..
A Better Start is a ten-year project set up by The National Lottery Community Fund, the largest funder of community activity in the UK.