Speech, Language and Communication Support for Parents and Carers

At Madginford Primary School, we recognise that communication is at the heart of children’s learning, friendships, confidence and independence.

Every child develops communication skills in their own way. Some children may need additional support with speech, language, understanding, social communication or interaction. By working together, families, school and professionals can help children develop the skills they need to thrive.

What are Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)?

Children with speech, language and communication needs may experience difficulties with:

Speech

This may include:

• saying sounds clearly;
• being understood by others;
• speaking fluently;
• developing confidence when talking.

Language

This may include:

• understanding words and instructions;
• learning new vocabulary;
• putting words together to form sentences;
• explaining ideas, thoughts and feelings.

Communication and Interaction

This may include:

• starting and maintaining conversations;
• understanding social situations;
• taking turns;
• developing friendships;
• interpreting body language, tone and facial expressions.

Every child is unique, and communication differences can present in many different ways.

How Parents Can Support Communication at Home

Talk, listen and share

Everyday moments provide wonderful opportunities for communication.

Try to:

• talk about what you are doing together;
• follow your child’s interests;
• give your child time to respond;
• encourage questions and conversation;
• show that you value what your child says.

Support understanding

You can help by:

• gaining your child’s attention before speaking;
• using clear, simple language;
• giving one instruction at a time;
• using pictures, gestures or visual reminders;
• checking understanding.

Develop language through play and everyday activities

Children learn best when communication is enjoyable.

Try:

• sharing books and talking about stories;
• singing songs and rhymes;
• playing turn-taking games;
• describing what you see, hear and do;
• introducing new words during everyday activities.

Support social communication

Help children develop interaction skills by:

• practising conversations;
• talking about feelings and emotions;
• discussing friendships;
• using role play to explore different situations;
• encouraging listening and turn-taking.

Speech and Language Therapy Support

Speech and Language Therapists (SaLTs) support children and young people who have difficulties with communication, speech, language, eating, drinking or swallowing.

In Kent, Speech and Language Therapy services work closely with children, parents, carers, schools and other professionals to support communication development.

Speech and Language Therapy support may include:

• advice and strategies for families and schools;
• assessment of a child’s communication needs;
• targeted support activities;
• specialist intervention where appropriate.

Useful Parent Resources

Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust – Speech and Language Therapy

Kent Children’s Speech and Language Therapy provides information and advice for families, including support with:

• early language development;
• speech sounds;
• communication skills;
• social interaction;
• referrals and assessments.

https://www.kentcht.nhs.uk/childrens-therapies-the-pod/speech-and-language-therapy/

Early Language and Communication Support

Kent NHS provides practical advice to help parents support children’s communication through everyday activities, play and interaction.

Resources include guidance on:

• developing early language;
• listening and attention skills;
• interaction and play;
• supporting communication at home.

https://www.kentcht.nhs.uk/childrens-therapies-the-pod/speech-and-language-therapy/early-years-language/

Supporting School-Aged Children with Speech, Language and Communication Needs

Resources and advice to support children’s communication development throughout their school years.

https://www.kentcht.nhs.uk/childrens-therapies-the-pod/speech-and-language-therapy/

Kent SEND Information Hub (Local Offer)

Kent’s SEND Information Hub provides information, advice and guidance for children and young people with SEND and their families.

It includes information about:

• education and school support;
• health services;
• social care;
• activities and community opportunities;
• advice for parents and carers.

https://www.kent.gov.uk/education-and-children/special-educational-needs-and-disabilities/about-the-send-local-offer

When Should I Speak to School?

Please speak to your child’s class teacher or our SEND team if you have concerns about your child’s:

• speech development;
• understanding;
• ability to express themselves;
• confidence communicating;
• friendships or social interaction.

Working together helps us understand your child’s strengths and needs and ensures they receive the right support.

Contacting Our SEND Team

If you have concerns about your child’s speech, language, communication, learning or wellbeing, please speak with your child’s class teacher or contact our SEND team.

We value working in partnership with families and believe that open communication helps us identify barriers, celebrate strengths and provide the right support at the right time.

SENDCo: Mrs S Farrell
School Office Email: office@mps.kent.sch.uk
Telephone: 01622 734539

At Madginford Primary School, we believe every child has a voice. We are committed to helping all children communicate, connect and flourish.