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ELIM-I - How to be a super communicator

A new website, resources and films to support health visiting teams and education practitioners using the Early Language Identification Measure and Intervention (ELIM-I) with families during the 2-2½ year Healthy Child Review. Supported by the Institute of Health Visiting, resources have been developed by Newcastle University including films from ³ÉÈËÂÛ̳ Tiny Happy People.

Ways to be a super communicator with your child

These films support the ELIM-I resources developed by Newcastle University. These universal techniques can be used in a variety of interventions or for everyday practice.

  • Having fun and using an interesting voice

    Showing your child that you’re having fun encourages them to interact and communicate with you.

    A mum and her son smiling as they look in a mirror

  • Asking open questions

    ‘What’, ‘why’ and ‘how’ questions encourage your child to give more than just ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers.

    A mum sat with her daughter on the bottom step as she puts her shoes on

  • Asking fewer questions

    Although it might feel natural to ask your child questions, they might not always have the words to answer.

    A little girl washing her hands

  • Adding words to build sentences

    Repeating what your child says and adding a word or two helps them learn to build sentences.

    A dad and his daughter looking out of a window

  • Listen, watch and respond

    Listening, watching and responding to your child is a great way to talk to them about the things that interest them.

    A mum and her daughter looking at a picture book together.

  • Pause and wait for your child

    Try waiting and watching your little one to see what they’re interested in before you chat with them.

    A dad and his son looking at a lampshade

  • Describe what's happening

    When you describe what’s happening, you’re helping your child link the words you say to what they’re doing.

    A toddler girl holding a t-shirt to her face as her mum looks on smiling.

  • Follow your child's lead

    When you follow their lead, the words you use will match the things they are doing or looking at.

    A mum sat outside with her toddler daughter.

  • Get down to your child's level

    When you are at your child’s level, you can be sure you’re talking about what interests them the most.