Derby parents, carers, businesses, children and young people of all ages are being invited to reveal who they most like to have a conversation with.
The challenge is part of preparations for TALK Derby DAY on Wednesday 1st July, to celebrate the work of TALK Derby – a major Government programme to help local children and young people develop the essential communication skills they need to learn, make friends, stay well and ultimately find jobs.
People are being asked to explain who they like to talk to and why, by posting their thoughts through text, images and or video on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or Instagram using the hashtag #TALKDerbyDAY. Organisers are especially keen to see videos of children talking about positive conversations they have had.
All activities posted on these social media channels with the hashtag in the run-up to the event and on Wednesday 1st July will be entered into a prize draw. The winner will secure £250 for a Derby school, nursery, college or other educational setting of their choice – to spend on speech, language and communication development.
TALK Derby DAY is designed to inspire everyone – parents and families, businesses, schools, colleges and other organisations – to stage activities which encourage conversations with each other.
Ideas have been adapted in line with Government regulations relating to Covid-19. They include virtual storytelling, online coffee mornings, home-based activities for children such as teddy bears’ picnics, debates, or video conversations with friends and family.
TALK Derby is being co-ordinated for Derby City Council by early years consultancy, Hempsall’s. Project Director Kate Freeman said:
TALK Derby DAY is a great opportunity for the whole city to get talking and listening. In the run up to the event, we want to hear about who you like to talk to the most. It could be your best friends, close family, teachers, neighbours, community group leaders or colleague – anyone you enjoy chatting with. Conversation is so important while we support our families, friends and colleagues through these difficult times. We want to continue to support parents, carers, professionals, businesses and other organisations to make those conversations count.
TALK Derby has also been sharing resources online and through its social media channels, including home-based ideas for parents and carers, businesses and for small groups of children. You can find these on its website and on its social media channels – Twitter (@lets_TALKDerby), Facebook and Instagram (@talk_derby).