0 - 6 months

Talking is one of the most important skills your baby will learn and they need your help to do it. By talking, reading and singing with your baby you are providing them with the stimulation they need to get the best start in life.

Why is it important?

Babies are naturally sociable and they love to interact with their parents and carers. Talking, playing and reading with your baby will help them to develop good language and communication skills. We know that 75% of baby’s brain development takes place in the first 2 years of life – so it is never too early to start stimulating your baby’s brain.

When you interact with your baby and focus your attention on them you are making your baby feel loved and valued. This helps to build your relationship with your baby and will give your baby confidence and security.

First point of contact

If you are concerned about your child’s communication or language skills then you can talk to your GP or health visitor. Alternatively, go along to one of Hackney’s Talking Walk-in sessions run by the speech and language therapy team. They will listen to your concerns and give you advice about how you can help your child.

Local services and information

Building your baby’s brain does not need expensive toys and books. Check out Hackney’s libraries for a great range of free books and activities for you and your baby.

‘Five to Thrive’ is an approach to building your baby’s brain and supporting their emotional development through five activities: Respond, Cuddle, Relax, Play, Talk. Find out more about ‘Five to Thrive’ by contacting your local children's centre.

Get Hackney Talking

Useful Hackney and City Health Visiting web pages

National resources

Brain building ideas

Talking

Stories

Song and rhyme ideas

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This page was last modified on: 7 Apr 2025
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