If 3 yr-olds talk at home, does it matter if they don't communicate with anyone at preschool? Education expert, Elizabeth Cook, has some advice.

Raisingkids member's problem
My 3 yr-old has been attending preschool for 5 months and does not speak at all while at school. She participates in all the activities but does not communicate with anyone at her preschool. She talks very well at home, and sings, dances and does lots of other things appropriate to her age-group. However, I'm concerned about her not talking at school - how do I know if this is normal?

Elizabeth's advice
You are right to be concerned about your daughter - 5 months is a long time not to communicate. I'm surprised that the school has not expressed their concern. You might ask to speak to the special needs coordinator (SENCO) and ask his or her advice about what you can do. She should have already been identified as a child causing concern.

However, before you do this, have you asked your daughter why she doesn't talk at school? There may be a very simple answer, but only she can tell you what it is.

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