What is a Paediatric Speech and Language Therapist?

A Paediatric speech and language therapists is a allied healthcare professional who helps children and young people who have various speech, language and communication needs (SLCN).

They are trained to work with children and young people presenting with difficulties in the following areas:

Attention and listening.
Language delays and disorders (Receptive and Expressive).
Speech sound delays and disorders.
Social communication and interaction difficulties including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Play skills.
Using alternative ways of communication e.g., using signing (Makaton), symbols (Picture Exchange communication system- PECS) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices that support programmes such as go talk, grind, Proloquo.

Benefits of using an independent speech and language therapy service

Independent speech and language therapist can offer a more flexible service. This allows the therapist to provide an individualised and personal therapy service to your child, with a therapy plan that is tailored to their needs.

Parents and carers have the reassurance of not having to ensure the possibility of long waiting lists before getting an appointment. In addition, you can regularly communicate with your child’s speech therapist, making it more convenient to stay updated on what your child is learning. Plus, you'll learn how to practice the speech and language strategies with your child at home, which will help them to make faster progress.