My Communication Techniques for Children in Lancashire

National studies indicate that 1 in 17 children struggle with their speech and communication, which can have a profound effect on their educational progress. 

Through Speech and Language Therapy I have provided speech therapy for young people across Lancashire, providing techniques for them improve not only their speech but their everyday lives.

My Speech and Language Therapy

I begin the therapy by assessing the child’s speech, language, and communication skills, carefully deciding whether their skills are at an appropriate level for their age. If I find a problem, I will identify the issue and produce a programme which can be integrated into their educational routine.

The programme will need the involvement of the people who spend the most time with the child to be effective, with the programme aimed to:

Areas I assess

As a speech and language therapist, there are 3 main areas that I assess.

Speech Sound System and Articulation

This looks at the production of speech sounds, fluency of speech, as well as the child’s ability to differentiate between them and sequence them for reading and spelling.

Language

I look at the child’s comprehension and how they put words and sentences together to convey information.

Communication Skills

I look at how the child interacts with other children as well as adults in their environment. 

These are just 3 areas of speech and language development that I will be looking in my assessment, I will look at other areas including; your child’s play, general interests, listening and attention skills, behaviour, and eating. 

I find it vital to get to know the child well, allowing me to get a full picture of their strengths and difficulties. Most of my assessments are completed through play and games, allowing the child to remain stimulated throughout the appointments.

Ongoing Research

Research into speech and language development, the pitfalls, and solutions to remediate the issues are ongoing in universities, with therapists heavily involved in the clinical work process. 

The research into speech and language development has produced findings including:

Available Therapy

Many local NHS Trusts offer high-quality speech and language therapy for children, however waiting lists can be long, therapy isn't as readily available as children need it, and appointment times aren't suitable. Private therapy is available, providing a flexible option to be combined with NHS therapy.

Private Therapy

I give all my clients a very thorough assessment, this allows me to explain to parents exactly what their child’s skills and difficulties are, and what needs to be done to help them. A written report will be provided if necessary, this will help form a firm foundation for ongoing therapy. 

I work with parents and teachers to devise a thorough therapy plan for the child, which will be followed for a specified length of time. I will then look at the child’s progress, before deciding what the next step is.