Language
This includes both receptive language (understanding of language) and expressive language (using words and sentences).
Learning to talk and communicate is a complex process, and some children find it more challenging than others. By understanding their individual needs and how to support them, we can help children to thrive and achieve positive outcomes
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Language difficulties in very young children
Preschool children are learning and developing so many different skills, and can vary in when they meet specific milestones. Some children develop language skills more gradually than others, and they may require a little more support.
I am able to provide advice and techniques to help you support your child's language, and model strategies for you to use at home. ​​
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Language disorder
Some children have more persistent language difficulties. Sometimes these difficulties are associated with a specific condition or diagnosis. For others, their language difficulties do not have a known cause and are not associated with wider learning needs or a biomedical condition. This is called Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)
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I can provide specialist, individualised intervention for children presenting with language disorder or DLD, focusing on each child’s specific strengths and challenges. I am able to provide advice for how to support and develop their language skills at home and at school.
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Tips for supporting children with language difficulties
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Gain your child’s attention before asking questions or giving instructions
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Use visual cues alongside language. This may include pictures, objects, symbols, gestures or demonstration
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Keep language short and concise. Break down longer instructions into smaller chunks, and give the child time to process each piece of information
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Comment more, and reduce the amount of questions. Talk about what the child is doing, and model clear, simple language.
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Repeat new, or less familiar words in a range of different contexts
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Gradually build on the child’s current language level e.g. if using very short phrases, model back the phrase with one or two added words
Further information and general advice, along with a progress checker, is available at: