From Babble to Big Conversations: How Communication Grows at Rosedene

From your baby’s first coo to your preschooler’s endless “whys,” communication is at the heart of your child’s development. At Rosedene Nurseries, we know these early interactions shape everything – from learning and confidence to friendships and emotional wellbeing. That’s why we make every moment a chance to connect, talk, and grow together.

Our experienced early years educators support children’s communication through everyday routines, play, stories, songs, and chats – always tailored to each stage of development. We also use visual prompts (matching words with pictures or objects) to help children understand and express themselves, which is especially helpful for children developing at different speeds or with additional needs.

Here’s how communication develops across the early years, what we do at Rosedene to support it – and how you can help at home too.

Babies: Babble, Eye Contact & First Sounds

Babies start communicating from day one – through eye contact, sounds, facial expressions, and eventually, babble. Key milestones include:

• Smiling in response to voices

• Turning towards sounds

• Making babbling sounds like “ba” or “da”

At Rosedene, our educators:

• Copy and respond to your baby’s sounds

• Make full eye contact and use animated facial expressions

·       Change tone of voice to match different emotions – especially when reading stories

For example, when reading a book about feelings, we might show a “sad” face and speak softly to help babies link words with emotions. These early interactions teach babies that their communication matters.

At home: Chat to your baby often, respond to their babbles, and read using your face and voice to bring stories to life. Even everyday routines – like changing a nappy – are great times to talk!

 Toddlers: First Words & Little Conversations

Toddlers are learning words fast and starting to form 2-word sentences like “drink please” or “thank you.” Communication helps them express needs, learn about the world, and build social skills.

At Rosedene, we:

• Model language all day long (e.g. “You’re stacking the blocks so high!”)

• Start asking open-ended questions like: “What do you think will happen next?”

• Use songs, stories, and role-play to build vocabulary and confidence

At home: Try swapping yes/no questions for open ones – instead of “Did you have fun?” try “What did you like most at nursery today?” Give them time to answer, even if it’s just a few words.

Preschoolers: Big Conversations & Storytelling

By age 3–4, children can be big communicators! They can hold conversations, tell stories, ask questions, and explain their ideas. This stage is about building confidence and extending their thinking.

At Rosedene, we:

• Ask more open-ended questions and build on their answers.

For example: “You went to the zoo? What animal did you like best, and why?”

• Support imaginative play and storytelling

• Use our lending libraries to send books home – great for building language and sharing special moments with parents.

At home: Keep the conversation going! Ask thoughtful questions, talk about feelings, and give your child time to respond. Reading books together and chatting about the story builds vocabulary and connection.

Supporting All Communicators – Including SEN

Not all children follow the same path – and that’s okay. Some children may be:

• Non-verbal (no sounds or words)

• Pre-verbal (making sounds, but not yet using words)

At Rosedene, our educators:

• Give full attention, eye contact, and get down to the child’s level

• Use fewer words, clear gestures, and visual prompts to support understanding

For parents: If you're concerned about your child’s speech, most local family hubs offer free access to speech and language therapists. Early support can make a big difference!

The most important way to support your child’s communication? Give them your full attention. When you stop, make eye contact, and really listen, you’re sending a powerful message: “What you’re saying matters.” That simple act encourages your child to keep communicating – whether they’re babbling, pointing, or telling a story.

Our Nursery Managers, Sam and Alysha, share their thoughts:

"Here at Rosedene we strive to offer equal opportunities to all of our children and families. We work alongside our parents to offer support, tips and guidance from ourselves and local family hubs. We understand that all children develop at different ages and stages, and we ensure to adapt our curriculum and environment, so all children get the best experience at Rosedene". 

“Children should most definitely be seen AND heard,

let’s keep the communication growing!”

Let’s Talk!

At Rosedene, we believe every sound, word, and question is a step towards confident communication. Whether your child is babbling or telling wild stories, we’re here to support them – and you – every step of the way.