We all know how important language is for children’s learning. In fact, sometimes it is so obvious that it can be overlooked, especially within a fast paced curriculum and busy school environment, with a lot of different demands and priorities. However, there are many children with language difficulties in our classrooms. Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) is the most common childhood disability, affecting over 1 million children and young people in the UK. In addition, we know from a range of information in research and practice, that upwards of 50 per cent of children start school with delayed speech and language in socially disadvantaged areas. These children may struggle to listen, to pay attention. They may have unclear speech, or difficulties understanding or using an age appropriate vocabulary. They may struggle to put together grammatical sentences when they talk, or have difficulties having conversations or socialising with their peers.