LEARNING
LEARNING
IMPROVING SPEECH, LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS Anna Lawlor, Primary Speech and Language Therapist
What is Speech and Language Therapy?
Who needs it and why does it matter?
As some may be unfamiliar with Speech and Language Therapy and what it involves, let us begin with a brief introduction. Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) provide support to people of all ages with a wide range of speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN), including:
Speech, language and communication abilities are essential life skills. In fact, in terms of employability, good communication skills are rated highly as a prerequisite for young people applying for their first job. Below are some facts related to SLCN:
• Difficulties understanding what others say • Problems with using language (vocabulary, sentences) • Difficulties with producing sounds correctly • Social interaction difficulties • Stammering • Voice problems SLTs assess and treat speech and language and communicate needs to enable others to communicate better. Although we work with people who have specific SLCN, we also provide information and support for the speech and language development of all children.
• Seven percent of children at the age of around five have SLCN • Children with poor language skills at age 5 are four times more likely to struggle with reading at 11 years of age • Children with vocabulary difficulties at the age of 5 are significantly associated with mental health issues, poor employment outcomes and problems with literacy • Developmental Language Disorder (difficulties understanding and/or using language not explained by hearing problems or a physical disability) affects approximately two students in every classroom • SLCN are the most common type of special educational need in children that are 4 to 11 years of age Speech and Language Therapy is effective in supporting those with SLCN. It can also benefit children and young people beyond language improvements and includes gains in social skills, peer relationships, selfconfidence and literacy skills. What does it look like at Bangkok Patana? SLTs work in a range of settings including hospitals, clinics and schools. Being based in a school provides an opportunity to work closely with teachers and parents to support the communication skills of students. Students are seen for Speech and Language Therapy in individual one to one sessions or in a small group setting. In addition to direct sessions, support may also be provided through advice, resources and training for teachers and parents. I have recently had the opportunity
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• Bangkok Patana School
