Hard to understand
Family and friends often have to translate, or your child's speech is unclear to people outside the home.
Difficulties I work with
Speaking & Listening works with children with a range of difficulties, including:
- Attention and listening difficulties
- Stammering
- Speech sound difficulties
- Delayed expressive language — e.g. difficulties learning new words or forming sentences
- Delayed understanding of language — e.g. difficulty following instructions or learning new concepts
The first contact will always involve an assessment so I can fully understand your child's current communication skills. This may involve observation and discussion as well as formal or informal assessment with your child.
If a joint decision is made that therapy would be useful, clear targets are set and a timeframe agreed. All assessment and therapy is presented in a fun and non‑threatening manner, and takes place in your child's home or educational setting.
I always work alongside any NHS therapist involved and liaise with all the professionals supporting your child, such as nursery and school staff and other medical professionals.
Advantages of Speaking & Listening
- No waiting lists
- A flexible service that fits around you and your family
- No travelling to appointments
- Assessment and therapy in an environment familiar to your child
- Regular input for your child to maximise the potential for faster progress
The journey
What happens, step by step
1
A free, short consultation
We talk through what you've noticed. I'll be honest with you about whether an assessment would be useful.
2
Assessment
Usually 60–90 minutes in your home or your child's setting, combining observation, discussion and assessment activities.
3
Findings & targets
You'll receive clear feedback and, if you'd like one, a full written report you can share with school or the NHS.
4
Therapy & review
Around 45 minutes per session, with ideas to practise between visits and regular reviews of progress against the targets.
Should I be concerned?
Every child develops at their own pace, but these are some of the things parents most often ask about.
Few words, short sentences
Your child uses fewer words than their peers, or struggles to join words into sentences.
Not following instructions
Your child seems to switch off, or finds it hard to follow directions with more than one part.
Repeating or getting stuck
Your child repeats sounds or words, blocks, or shows frustration when trying to speak.
Frustration and behaviour
Communication difficulties often show up as frustration, withdrawal or difficulty making friends.
Waiting for the NHS
You've been referred but the wait is long, and you'd like advice or therapy in the meantime.
Not sure where to start?
The first conversation is free and there’s no obligation. Call or email and I’ll get straight back to you.