IN PICTURES: Programme launched to promote early communication for babies in Derry

Western Trust Speech and Language Therapists in Surestart, Limavady, recently launched two programmes to promote positive parent and baby interaction and the early communication skills of babies.

The Derry-based Speech and Language Therapy Team (SLT) presented their four-week, Ready, Steady, Sing and Play Baby Programme for parents and babies which is based on the most recent research in baby brain development.

Emer Maguire, local Comedian and Science Communicator presented the Chatting Time, Bite Size Videos for parents. These videos were originally developed by Belfast Surestart, Speech and Language Therapists. This resource is open for all to access on Youtube.

READ MORE: IN PICTURES: Derry & District Youth Awards Night at the Waterfoot Hotel

Kate Crossan, Lead Speech and Language Therapist for WHSCT Surestart explained: “These programmes are aimed at promoting positive baby brain development in a fun and engaging way.

"They show how parents can help their baby develop by singing, smiling, talking and playing with their babies. They encourage parents to respond to and communicate with their babies.”

The event was attended by professionals from Speech and Language Therapy, nine Surestart Teams, WHSCT Best Start in Life working group, Health Visiting, Health Improvement, SPPG, PHA and representatives of the community and voluntary sector.

USE THE ARROWS OR 'NEXT' TO BROWSE THROUGH THE FULL GALLERY