Speech & language delay
Speech and language delay
The most common reason families come to us, and the one where early support changes the most.
By two most children have a handful of words; by three they are putting sentences together. When that is not happening, parents are often told to wait and see. At The Nurture Nest we do the opposite. Speech and Language Therapy principles run through every circle time, story, snack and game, and a key person works in a group of three so every attempt to communicate gets a response.
We model words, use Makaton signs and picture supports, slow down, give choices and wait. Progress is recorded on the EYParent app so you can see the new words and signs as they arrive, and we share targets with any NHS or private therapist already involved.
How we support this
Attention and listening
The foundation for talking: shared attention, turn taking, following simple instructions.
Understanding
Key-word levels, visuals and routines so children understand before they speak.
Expressive language
Modelling, expanding, choices and commenting rather than questioning.
Speech sounds
Play-based practice and a referral route for specialist assessment.
Social communication
Greeting, requesting, sharing attention and playing with others.
Bilingual families
Support in the home language too; a delay across all languages is handled differently from English as a new language.
What parents say
5.0★★★★★Google · 2 reviewsWe honestly couldn't be more impressed with this nursery. It's so refreshing to see a setting that is SEN-focused while being genuinely inclusive and welcoming to every child. It feels like they've created an environment where every child is seen as an individual and their needs are understood and supported. The nursery is exceptionally clean, bright and welcoming, with so much thought put into the imaginative play and activities. What really stands out is the level of one-to-one attention they give to each child.
The facilities at the nurture nest are outstanding! I have been coming to the stay and play for around 6 months with my 2 year old as I was slightly concerned that he was delayed in his speech.
Questions parents ask
My 2-year-old is not talking. Is that a problem?
Not always, but it is always worth acting on. Come to Stay & Play and we will look together; early support costs nothing if it turns out not to be needed.
Do you have a Speech and Language Therapist?
SALT principles are embedded for every child at no extra cost; specialist 1:1 Speech and Language Therapy is available on site at an additional cost.
Will nursery help my child talk?
A language-rich day with adults who respond to every attempt is the single most effective thing for most children with a delay.
Can you refer to the NHS?
Yes, we make referrals and liaise with Ealing’s speech and language service and health visitors.
Families come to us from
Southall, Hanwell and Ealing first, then Greenford, Northolt, Hayes, Norwood Green, Heston, Hounslow, Brentford and further across West London.
Come and see us
Free Stay & Play every Monday 10:00–11:30, or book a tour any weekday. Call or WhatsApp 07909 932193.
- 1Stay & PlayFree, every Monday 10:00–11:30
- 2Visit and chatMeet the team, see the rooms
- 3Play-based assessmentYour child's plan takes shape
- 4Settle and startAt your child's pace, with a key person