Unlocking Creativity and Communication: TTS Recordable Talking Frogs by Hayley Winter

Every EYFS setting is always continually looking for ways to promote oracy, vocabulary and children’s communication skills. In the realm of early childhood education, tools that seamlessly blend play with learning are invaluable. The new recordable talking frogs stand out as a dynamic resource that fosters imaginative play, enhances literacy, and bolsters communication skills. 

Imaginative Play

Imaginative play is a fundamental part of early development, allowing children to explore, experiment, and understand the world around them. The Recordable Talking Frogs are designed to be used in various settings, be it water, sand, or other sensory materials, making them perfect for small world play scenarios. Yes, they really can be fully submerged in water! Who knew, resources like this excited? Thanks to TTS ‘own development, they have made this come true! Children can create pond ecosystems, reenact stories like “The Frog Prince,” or invent their own adventures, using the frogs as central characters. This kind of play not only sparks creativity but also helps in developing problem-solving skills and emotional understanding. 

Developing Storytelling Skills

Literacy development thrives on engagement and interaction. These recordable frogs offer a unique way to integrate phonics and storytelling into play. Educators and children can record up to 30-second messages, which can include letter sounds, words, or short narratives. For instance, a frog can “say” a word, and children can be prompted to identify the initial sound or rhyme. This auditory reinforcement aids in phonemic awareness, a critical component of reading readiness. Moreover, by recording parts of a story on different frogs, children can practice sequencing and narrative skills, laying a strong foundation for literacy. 

Communication and Expression

Effective communication is built through practice and interaction. The Talking Frogs encourage children to express themselves, listen actively, and engage in dialogues. In group settings, children can use the frogs to record questions and answers, facilitating peer-to-peer communication. This not only enhances vocabulary but also teaches the nuances of conversation, such as turn-taking and active listening. Additionally, for children who are shy or have speech delays, these frogs can serve as a non-threatening medium to express thoughts and feelings, thereby building confidence. 

Adaptability

One of the standout features of these frogs is their adaptability. They can be integrated into various curricular activities beyond literacy and communication. For example, in science lessons, frogs can “describe” their life cycle stages, or in math, they can “announce” numbers or simple equations. Their durable design ensures they can withstand the rigors of both indoor and outdoor play, making them a long-lasting addition to any educational setting. 

The Recordable Talking Frogs go beyond simple play resources, they are versatile learning tools that enhance educational experiences across multiple curriculum areas. By intertwining imaginative play with literacy and communication development, they cater to the holistic growth of children. Educators and parents seeking to create engaging, interactive, and educational environments will find these frogs to be a valuable asset in their toolkit. 

Extra Inspiration

Further ideas for these incredible talking frogs could include:

• Adding them into messy play such as gloop or gelli baff with key vocabulary. 
• Incorporate them into your language activities such as phonic tasks. Can you match the sound? 
• Create treasure trails and listen to the messages to navigate your journey. 
• Encourage singing 5 speckled frogs by adding these frogs to a speckled log. Best thing about them, they can really jump into the pool!  
• Use them to learn about the life cycle of a frog. 
• Record parts of a traditional fairytale on them to sequence. 

The possibilities are truly endless!