Language and communication in early learning and childcare (ELC): Appendix 3: Reflective questions

These reflective questions may be used to support the journey from self-evaluation to implementation of a language and communication supportive environment.

1. What are the SLC risk factors that impact on babies and children in your setting?
2. Why is supporting SLC important in your setting?
3. Which children in your setting stand to benefit from spending time in a language and communication supportive environment?
4. To what extent is SLC already supported in your setting through:
   1. Responsive interactions
   2. Language rich experiences
   3. Language and communication supportive spaces and resources
5. Does your setting have access to a language and communication supportive environment self-evaluation tool that meets the recommendations laid out in this guide?
   1. If no, what steps can be taken to create or identify a self-evaluation tool that is fit for purpose in your setting?
6. Are there any surprises or challenges for your setting among the recommended elements of interactions, experiences and spaces?
7. How can staff be supported to understand the findings of their self-evaluation?
8. How can staff be supported to put change into practice?
9.  Is support available locally from your local authority, outside agencies such as Speech and Language Therapy, or other training sources?
10. Is there existing expertise within your setting or opportunities to develop this? (e.g. communication champion, equity and excellence lead or similar role)
11. How can staff support parents to support their child or children's' language and communication development?