TTS Talking Early Years Episode 19 | How to develop oracy teaching skills with Louisa Reeves
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Oct 23, 2025 Louisa Reeves, Director of Policy and Evidence at Speech and Language UK and a qualified speech therapist, shares her deep expertise on speech and language development. She discusses the challenges of developing oracy skills, emphasizing the link between language, behavior, and mental health. Practical strategies for the classroom are provided, including effective questioning and processing time techniques. Louisa also addresses the complexities of screen time and social media's impact on communication, urging a shift towards supportive language-rich environments.
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Language Development Continues Beyond Early Years
- Adults who communicate well often underestimate how hard language development is for children.
- Teachers may assume language is 'done' by age five but it continues developing into adolescence.
Get Specific Training On Speech And Language
- Seek targeted training in speech, language and communication when initial teacher training lacks it.
- Use free short courses and resource packs from specialist organisations like Speech and Language UK.
Give Processing Time Before Expecting Answers
- Pause more and allow children processing time instead of filling silences immediately.
- Signal questions in advance and give children time to think before expecting an answer.