Before Words

Parent-friendly information about communication development in very young children and ways to encourage it

From the beginning

About

From the Beginning tells the story of the unborn child's learning in the womb that prepares them to learn to interact, communicate and form relationships.

By the time he or she is born they are ready to listen, watch, copy, coo and cry.

"The foetus story through the nine months of pregnancy to birth is the story of the journey from one world to another."

Seglow, Ruth & Canham, Hamish (1999) Intra-uterine life and the experience of birth.

From the Beginning starts at the twelfth week of gestation, with drawings and information about the unborn child's development at four-weekly intervals. Cartoons with brief captions illustrate ways in which mothers and fathers can support the baby's learning and form communication and relationship with their unborn child. In each four-week 'chapter' there are spaces for the pregnant mother to record her experiences, thoughts and feelings. There are also useful pages for appointments phone numbers etc.

"Good to look back and remember"

A mother's words (Surestart Northmoor)

Parents are the first and best teachers of their child and can make a difference from the very beginning.

"To become skilful communicators babies and children need to be together with a key person and others in warm and loving relationships."

Department of Education (2002) Birth to Three Matters 'A framework to support children in their earliest years.' DfeS Publications.

This resource was developed by Lynn Jones and Gretel McEwen, speech and language therapists, in partnership with parents, SureStart midwives, fathers workers and mainstream health visitors - supported by SureStart Westgate Children's Centre. From the Beginning reflects and supports the underpinning principles of the SureStart emphasis on the importance of early intervention, and is in line with the growing emphasis on the importance of positive support during pregnancy.

"We are learning more about how children develop and recognising the importance of pregnancy and the firs two years of life. We know that the development of language begins in the womb."

Better Communication. Department for children, schools and families.