Talking Buddies is an evidence‐informed early language enrichment program designed to strengthen children’s vocabulary, communication and early literacy through play, shared stories and everyday routines. Delivered by a speech pathologist, the program uses small‐group, story‐based sessions to introduce vocabulary and model strategies such as narration, recasting, expansions and open‐ended questioning.

A key focus is building the skills and confidence of educators and caregivers as children’s communication partners. Through modelling, coaching and guided practice, educators embed language‐rich interactions into daily routines including group time, transitions, play and conversations. Caregivers are supported to continue these strategies at home, promoting consistency.

The program is grounded in evidence‐based early language and literacy practices, including shared book reading and intentional adult‐child interaction linked to improved communication and learning outcomes. Talking Buddies integrates into play‐based preschool programs using familiar materials, ensuring strategies are practical and sustainable.

By strengthening children’s communication and adult capability, Talking Buddies supports participation, engagement and early learning foundations.

Find out more: https://www.cando4kids.com.au/training-for-educators/boost-programs/

Expected outcomes:

• Improved educator capability to model rich language, scaffold conversations and embed targeted vocabulary
• Increased use of evidence-based strategies (e.g. narration, recasting, open ended questioning) within play based programs
• Improved consistency between educator and caregiver language practices, supporting children’s communication across environments
• Enhanced ability to support children’s oral language, early literacy, participation and communication confidence
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Talking Buddies is delivered as a therapist led, small group program for children aged 3-5 years, with educators and caregivers as active participants.

The program runs over 5-10 sessions, delivered fortnightly (or weekly), with each session lasting approximately 60 minutes. Groups include 4-8 children, allowing for strong engagement and individualised support.

Each session follows a structured, story based routine using shared book reading, themed vocabulary and play based activities to build language and communication. Evidence-based strategies such as narration, modelling, recasting and open ended questioning are explicitly demonstrated and practised within meaningful interactions. Activities integrate naturally into early childhood settings.

Talking Buddies is delivered in person by a speech pathologist, with educators and caregivers participating to practise strategies, support learning and build confidence.

Implementation support includes:

• a pre program educator session
• context modelling and coaching
• practical handouts with vocabulary and prompts
• opportunities for reflection and
• a post program review with recommendations.

This approach supports embedding language rich strategies into daily routines and ensures consistency across learning and home environments, promoting sustained outcomes for children.

Cost: $195 per hour (ex GST). Delivered in blocks of 5 or 10 one‐hour sessions, plus 1 hour educator support for pre and post program. Programs cost $1365 for 5 sessions or $2340 for 10 session (ex GST). Travel is charged at $48.75 per 15min increment from closest therapy hub.