Speech Language and Communication Needs

It’s not just teaching kids how to say ‘s’…

Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) is the term used to cover a very broad range of difficulties. A speech and language therapist (‘SLT’ or ‘SaLT’) is able to assess and identify much more specifically, the areas of strength and need for each child. The SLT will refer for specialist assessment or to other professionals if needed, they will be able to make a diagnosis individually (where appropriate) or as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

The types of difficulty / diagnosis that may require SLT support include:

• Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

• Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC / ASD)and social interaction difficulties

• Language difficulties / disorder associated with other diagnoses

• Selective mutism

• Deafness and Hearing impairment

• Speech sound disorders

• Articulation difficulties

• Attention and listening difficulties & ADHD

• Dysfluency (stammering / stuttering)

• Downs Syndrome and other genetic syndromes

• Dyspraxia

• Difficulties associated with social, emotional and mental health needs (SEMH)

• Cleft palate

• Voice disorders