16mo–2.2y12 minFamily timeReadingQuiet time
Home Language Bridge to English
A reassuring and practical routine that keeps your home language strong while adding small amounts of English through play and picture talk, supporting your child's confidence and early speaking skills.
What you'll need
Essentials
- a simple picture book (any language) or 2 to 3 family photos
- one favourite toy or everyday object to talk about
Nice to have
- a notebook/notes app for a few key words
- a comfortable cosy spot for reading/talking
Movement level: false
What you'll do
The 4-step guide, with what to look for at each step, is for signed-in parents.
What this develops
- MilestoneCombines two wordsMind· 14mo–3y· core
- MilestoneUnderstands simple questionsMind· 14mo–2.2y· stretch· Step 4
- MilestoneBeginning to talk about people and things that are not present.Mind· 16mo–2.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneCopies heard wordsMind· 8mo–20mo· core· Step 2
- MilestoneNames pictured referentsMind· 23mo–2.9y· core
- MilestoneCopies sounds or wordsMind· 10mo–20mo· stretch
- MilestoneCoordinates gesture with another signalMind· 9mo–2.5y· core· Step 3
- MilestoneUses single meaningful wordsMind· 8mo–20mo· stretch
- MilestoneBeginning to ask simple questions.Mind· 2.1y–4.2y· core· Step 4
- MilestoneHolds a conversation, jumping from topic to topic.Mind· 22mo–3y· stretch· Step 1
What it practices
Where it comes from
- Source
- Development Matters in the EYFS (DfE, 2012)
- Original guidance
- “Explain that strong foundations in a home language support the development of English.”
- License
- Open Government Licence v3.0
- Attribution
- © Crown Copyright 2012 (Development Matters in the EYFS, DfE)