fashion

How to get your little one talking

It sounds pretty simple - just talk to kids and get to know them, right? Unfortunately, it’s not always as easy as with adults (and even then, we could all do with a little poke). For Children’s Mental Health Week, Place2Be gives us tips on how to start that all-important conversation with children.

Shop Girlswear

Shop Boyswear

Everyday Play

Connect with your child everyday, like when you pick them up from school or when you get home. Getting involved at play time is also great for them: you can find common ground by exploring new interests together.

“Tell me about your day at school/nursery today..”

“What was your favourite thing that happened today?”

“Would you like to play ----- with me?”

Important Connections

Get your kids talking about family, friends, neighbours, childminders, local community members, or your faith group (if you have one). Mentioning family members who live abroad or those who have passed away is okay.

"I saw (Grandma, friend etc) today! They told me that..."

"If your child has a childminder or other carer: "What did you do/play with --------- today?"

"Do you remember when ----------- / ---------- used to….

Explore Friendships

Ask them about their friends - both in real life and online. You may not think online friends are “real friends”, but your child probably feels differently about their COD lobby.

Losing friends, feeling left out or being bullied is very painful and your child needs to know you will support them through these difficult times. This could sound like…

“Who did you play with today?” (in person, or online)

“Who are your friends at school/nursery? What are they like?”

“Tell me about what happened with -----”