Supporting Speech and Language Development Through Seasonal Play

With autumn in full swing and winter fast approaching, the world around us becomes full of colour, light, and excitement — from crunchy leaves and sparkling fireworks to cosy winter mornings.

These seasonal changes are more than just beautiful — they’re bursting with opportunities for speech and language development in the early years. Through storytelling, singing, and play, young children learn to listen, understand, and communicate with confidence.

We know that children learn best through hands-on, sensory experiences that link to their interests and the world around them.

Here’s ways of supporting speech and language development through seasonal play, both in nursery and at home!

1. Storytelling That Sparks Imagination

Storytime helps children make sense of the world and develop early literacy and communication skills.

Choosing stories that reflect the season makes learning meaningful and engaging — from tales about autumn leaves and bonfires to snowy adventures and festive celebrations.

Try this:

• Read slowly and talk about the pictures together.

• Ask open-ended questions: “What do you think will happen next?” or “How do you think the fox feels?”

• Encourage your child to retell or act out the story.

Why it matters: Storytelling helps children understand how language works — building sequencing, comprehension, and emotional awareness, while introducing rich new vocabulary.

Click here for our favourite autumnal reads.

2. Singing and Rhymes for Everyday Learning

Singing is one of the most effective ways of supporting speech development through play. Seasonal songs and nursery rhymes build rhythm, repetition, and rhyme awareness — key skills for early reading and phonics.

Try this:

• Sing festive favourites like Five Little Snowmen or Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

• Add simple props or movements — scarves for snow, shakers for fireworks, or hand gestures for falling leaves.

• Repeat songs regularly — familiarity helps children join in with confidence.

Why it matters: Singing supports memory, listening, and pronunciation while helping children experiment with sounds, patterns, and expression.

Click here for some great nursery rhymes.

3. Role Play and Everyday Conversation

Role play allows children to explore language in context — an important part of communication and language in the EYFS.

Whether pretending to make hot chocolate or run a winter shop, imaginative play encourages conversation, cooperation, and storytelling.

Try this:

• Create a simple seasonal role play area using everyday materials — a tray of cups, scarves, or a cardboard shop front.

• Join in and model new language: “I’m pouring the warm cocoa — would you like some marshmallows?”

• Follow your child’s lead and ask open questions.

Why it matters: Through role play, children practise turn-taking, expressive language, and social communication in a fun, familiar setting.

4. Seasonal Sensory Play

Sensory exploration offers endless opportunities for language development. Describing textures, colours, and sensations helps children connect words with experiences.

Try this:

• Explore leaves, ice, or spiced playdough using touch and smell.

• Talk about what you notice: “The ice feels slippery,” or “The cinnamon smells sweet and warm.”

Why it matters: Descriptive language builds comprehension and expressive vocabulary — key aspects of speech and language development in early years education.

Click here for some inspiration!

Parent Tip: Talk, Notice, Repeat

The most powerful way to support your child’s communication is through everyday interactions. Narrate what you’re doing, name objects, and respond to your child’s interests.

Child: “Fireworks!”Adult: “Yes, bright fireworks in the sky — they go pop and sparkle!”

This simple back-and-forth builds vocabulary, understanding, and confidence.

Final Thoughts

Every season brings new opportunities for curiosity, creativity, and conversation. By weaving speech and language development into play and daily routines, you’re giving your child the tools to express themselves and connect with the world around them.