![](/media/k22dlp2j/b2f406d990b8128de58203b0a3235eb3.jpg?width=1002&height=668&bgcolor=White&v=1da4db99f41d070)
In Loris Malaguzzi's famous poem describing the work of the pre-schools of Reggio Emilio in Italy, he wrote, 'The child has a hundred languages, a hundred hands' - and that seems a good place to start when thinking about the role of creativity in language development.
We know that talk often comes easily when the hands are occupied. Sometimes this talk is about the task in hand - the process, materials, ideas and challenges involved. But it can also be about seemingly unrelated topics. It is as though the hands - and the sensory experiences of painting, manipulating messy materials, cutting and sticking - are triggering the kinds of activity in the language centres of the brain that promote talk and conversation.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here