ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book shows how the non-verbal communication skills that underpin our conversational ability are less likely to develop in the twenty-first century and the serious consequences for society of people growing up being able to talk but not to communicate. It describes the need for a new theory of communication development. The book looks at research that supports this new theory and how it differs from current theories relating to child development. It argues that language is actually an outcome of the development of non-verbal communication skills – none of which relate to language. The book aims to explain why children are growing up with so many communication problems nowadays and points to solutions which are cost-effective, simple, lasting and based on 15 years' successful experience of working in this way with children.
