Welcome to our Speech and Language Page
What are Speech and Language Needs?
Info – Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) is the term used to describe difficulties with: producing speech sounds accurately. stammering. voice problems, such as hoarseness and loss of voice. understanding language (making sense of what people say).
Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN) is an umbrella term. Children with SLCN may have difficulty with many aspects of communication. These can include difficulties with fluency, forming sounds and words, formulating sentences, understanding what others say and using language socially.
A child with speech, language and communication needs:
- Might have speech that is difficult to understand.
- They might struggle to say words or sentences.
- They may not understand words that are being used, or the instructions they hear.
- They may have difficulties knowing how to talk and listen to others in a conversation.
How to Support your Child with SLCN?
There are various ways to support your child:
Naturally, talking to a child as much as you can will assist their language development. It’s important to talk to them even when they can’t talk to you – from birth, you should chat about what you’re doing and ask them questions, responding to any gestures or noises they make as if they’ve spoken a sentence
Use clear visual support such as gesture or pictures when giving them information. Some children need extra time to process information. Leave a pause if the child does not immediately respond. Encourage the child to be aware of their understanding difficulties and ask for help if they don’t understand.
Use fun props that engage the senses to help your child learn to focus for longer. Praise behaviours you do want children with SLCN can often get frustrated, which can result in difficult behaviours. Praise your child whenever you see them doing something you do want “well done for waiting!”, “good listening!” etc
Each logo below will take you to a website where you and your child can gain ideas and support for speech and language difficulties.
Did you know? You can see if you can get support by applying for disability allowance.
