A charity that helps children develop communication skills was today calling on thousands of youngsters across the United Kingdom to take part in its annual "chat-along" fundraising event.

I Can, which provides therapy and education for children with communication disabilities, announced this year's Chatterbox Challenge is taking place from February 6 to 12.

The sponsored challenge encourages children to perform a song, rhyme, story or poem at their playgroup or nursery to raise money for youngsters with communication disabilities.

Virginia Beardshaw, CEO of I Can, says, "Communication is a fundamental skill for life - it is the springboard to learning, literacy and social development and the early years are a critical time for developing communication."

Chatterbox Challenge is not only great fun, it's educational too as learning songs and nursery rhymes, such as "Row, Row, Row, Your Boat," is a great way of helping pre-school children develop their communication skills through interaction, rhyme and rhythm.

"What's more, Chatterbox Challenge provides I Can with much-needed funds for our vital work supporting children who struggle to communicate."

Now in its fourth year, Chatterbox Challenge has raised over 350,000 Euros for the one in ten children in the United Kingdom with a communication disability.

This year's challenge, which is being sponsored by makers of educational playthings LeafFrog Toys, is themed around the sea, with young participants encouraged to perform maritime songs and poems.

To register for a free ChatterPack, containing ideas and activities designed by I Can teachers and speech therapists, visit www.chatterboxchallenge.org.uk. Suggested songs for the challenge are included in the pack, along with color-in certificates, stickers and sponsor forms.

Source: I Can