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Baby and child development (including language development)

Your child is developing from the day they are born, using what they see, hear, experience and the interactions they have. It’s important to remember every child is different and your child may develop at a different rate to another.

Your Health Visitor will help you to assess your child's developmental level when they are aged 1 and 2 years-old. If you are concerned about your child's development, please contact your Health Visitor directly or use the Health Visitor contact page.

Find out more information on how you can play a key role in supporting your child to reach their full potential on our child development page. Other helpful resources can be found at:

  • NHS resources on baby and child development
  • Owl Babies Course

    During this course we share ideas, talk about the challenges of being a parent, support mental and emotional wellbeing using Five to Thrive, Nature and the outdoor environment. It is a chance to find out how the great outdoors supports and enhances healthy brain development. Each session will focus on one of the Five to Thrive activities and offer the opportunity to experience together the awe and wonder of connecting with Nature. There will be time each week to relax and connect with others.

    The very earliest experiences shape a baby’s brain so join us and be part of your baby’s amazing journey learning about the restorative power of Nature.

    THE SKY IS THE LIMIT!

    To book on this course go to our booking page for babies under 6 months.

Early language development and improving your home learning environment

Family Hubs Lewisham offer a range of activities and resources to support your baby and child's communication and early learning. Find out more about sessions and courses at your local Family Hub here. 

Sharing it REAL

Sharing it REAL (Raising Early Achievement in Literacy) is a programme that works to support children’s early literacy and development. It is a fun, four-week programme to help you support your child's early learning and language development. Check out our current timetable for details of the next course

BookStart scheme

Receive a free book pack and resources for your baby or child, just ask at reception. You can also visit the BookStart website to access resources online.

Lewisham Libraries

Lewisham Libraries have many activities and resources to help you to support your child's early language development and home learning. View the Lewisham Libraries activity programme

Help for children with Special Educational Needs and Disability

If your child has a special educational need or disability or you believe they may need additional support please visit our webpage, or view Lewisham's SEND local offer.