Young Children with Speech, Language and Communication Delay or Difficulties

Young children’s speech, language and communication skills develop at different speeds. Sometimes it can be delayed, and children may need extra help to progress. The delay or difficulty may be in:

  • Attention and listening
  • Comprehension (understanding spoken language, understanding specific vocabulary)
  • Expressive language (developing vocabulary, formulating sentences)
  • Social communication skills
  • Speech sound development (phonological delay or disorder, articulation difficulties)
  • Fluency

If you think your child may have any of these difficulties you can speak to a Speech and Language Therapist at any of the borough’s Children’s Centres.

They run ‘Little Leaps’ groups where parents learn to support their child by reinforcing vocabulary and using strategies such as Makaton signing.

They may also refer you for more in-depth Speech and Language Therapy support which is delivered from three health centres across the borough: the Northern, River Place and Finsbury. You will then usually be offered an initial assessment appointment within 6 weeks of receiving the referral.  This can be accessed through a referral to the Islington Disabled Children's Service.

More information and guidance available here.

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