The recent I CAN report suggests that over 50% of children in England are starting school with some form of speech and language disability. The EYFS states that 'the development and use of communication and language is at the heart of young children's learning.' This series considers the significant role that the physical environment can play in supporting children's speaking and listening skills; in supporting inquisitive, verbal experimentation, not just answering questions! Outside is such a preferred context for so many children and needs to be maximised! The ideas in this book will inspire you to review your outside spaces and make sure they are the kind of places where young children will develop their language skills.