A CHILDREN'S charity is encouraging children and young people to put down their pens in November to raise awareness of communication skills.

I CAN is asking people to recognise No Pens Day Wednesday on November 25 in a bid to develop verbal communication skills.

Louisa Reeves, head of impact and evidence at I CAN, said: “Verbal communication skills are fundamental for learning to read and write, managing emotions, developing friendships and are helpful when entering employment.

"However, spoken language is underrepresented in the curriculum compared to the focus on written language skills.

"Following long periods away from classroom learning due to Covid-19, encouraging the development of verbal communication is vital to support children and young people.

"That’s why we are calling on early years, primary, secondary schools and colleges and families to get involved with No Pens Day Wednesday by putting down their pens, getting creative in the classroom and speaking up for spoken language.”