Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) provides treatment, support and care to individuals who have difficulties with communication, language, speech, and swallowing.
Speech and Language Therapists are trained professionals who have completed a degree in Speech and Language Therapy and who have the skills, knowledge and experience to provide specialist support with communication.
The Key Roles of a Speech and Language Therapist
-
Assessment: SLTs begin by assessing a child’s speech, language, and communication skills. This assessment may involve observing the child, talking with parents and teachers, and using specialised tools and assessments. The goal is to understand the child's strengths and areas where they need support to create a clear picture of their needs.
-
Diagnosis: Based on the assessment, the SLT may diagnose specific communication disorders. For example, they might identify a child with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), or a speech sound disorder. SLTs form an important part of the multidisciplinary team who diagnose Autism in children and adults. Speech and Language Therapists who specialise in gestalt language processing are skilled in identifying the language processing type of children which will determine the therapy approach that will best support the client.
-
Therapy: Therapy is the core part of an SLT’s role. This may involve one-to-one sessions with the child, group therapy, or therapy in educational settings like nurseries and schools. SLTs use evidence-based practice which includes their own experience, the client's voice, and published research to select therapy approaches that will help children develop their communication skills. Therapy is tailored to the child's age, developmental stage, neurodivergence, language processing style, and individual needs, ensuring it is both effective and engaging.
-
Parent Coaching: Parents play a crucial role in their child’s communication development. SLTs provide coaching to parents, offering strategies and activities that can be used at home to support their child’s progress. This might include showing parents how to use play-based techniques, language modeling, or using Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC).
-
Training for Educators and Caregivers: SLTs often provide training for teachers, teaching assistants, and other caregivers to ensure that the strategies used in therapy are reinforced in the child’s everyday environment. This training can include how to use AAC, how to support children in the classroom, and how to create a communication-friendly environment.
-
Collaborative Working: Communication is integral to a child’s overall development, and SLTs frequently collaborate with other professionals, such as teachers, psychologists, occupational therapists, and paediatricians. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the child's development are considered, leading to a more holistic and effective support plan.
-
Developing and Supporting the Use of AAC: For some children, speech may not be the primary means of communication. SLTs assess the need for, and support the use of, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) systems, such as communication boards, speech-generating devices, or sign language. These tools help children who struggle with verbal communication to express themselves and engage with others.
-
Transition Support: As children grow and their needs change, SLTs help them transition between different stages of their education and life. This might involve preparing a child for starting school, moving from primary to secondary education, or planning for adulthood. SLTs ensure that communication support is consistent and adapted to the child's evolving needs.
Why Choose Speech and Language Therapy?
Speech and Language Therapy can make a profound difference in a child's life. By supporting their communication skills, SLTs help children:
- Build Relationships
- Communicate with parents, teachers and their friends
- Express themselves
- Gain confidence
- Build positive self-esteem and mental health
- Advocate for themselves
If you are concerned about your child’s speech, language, or communication development, Speech and Language Therapy may provide the support they need to flourish. Our team of experienced SLTs is here to guide you and your child on this journey, offering tailored support every step of the way.
Contact Us
