Abstract: The aim of the article is to present the role of play in the process of supporting the speech development of children under the age of three by their parents. Material and methods: On the basis of scientific studies, a concise characterization of speech was made, a description of the individual stages of its development, the specificity of play as an element that may support the acquisition of communication skills in early childhood. Results: The ability to communicate is probably the most important of all life skills. The way people communicate has a huge impact on their education, career opportunities and relationships with other people. Conclusions: Reflection on the issues raised indicates that one of the most important people who have a significant impact on the child's speech development are parents and their relatives, with whom the child spends the most time.