When children reach the Lead stage they communicate with confidence and purpose. They explain their thinking, present ideas to a group, start to give persuasive arguments and demonstrate emerging critical thinking skills. This may include leading activities such as a live box reveal, sharing knowledge or giving a short age-appropriate presentation.

Children independently start conversations, ask questions and contribute ideas without prompting. They show curiosity, offer opinions, build on the ideas of others and actively participate in discussions.

Children confidently share ideas with a partner, small group or class. They take turns, listen to others, respond appropriately and begin engaging in meaningful conversations.

Children use words and sentences to communicate their thoughts. They develop vocabulary, answer questions, describe objects and experiences and begin constructing increasingly detailed responses.

Children start to join sounds, words and ideas together. They orally blend simple sounds, recognise patterns in language and begin combining words to express meaning.

Children join in with sounds, songs, actions and simple responses. They begin to listen attentively, repeat sounds and words and build the foundations for communication and language.