How can a Speech Pathologist help?

Speech pathologists can support clients and their families around a number of areas. Below is more information about how they can help your child.

Speech

A speech disorder is when a child has difficulty saying speech sounds. This can make their speech difficult to understand. Some sounds are later to develop, for example preschool children often have difficulty with ‘r’ and ‘th’. However, usually:

·       At 2 years old, you should understand 50% of a child’s speech.

·       At 3 years old, you should understand 75-100% of a child’s speech.

Oral Language

A language delay or disorder is when a child has difficulty understanding and using words to communicate ideas. For example, they may have difficulty:

·       Following spoken directions.

·       Understanding the meaning of words and new ideas.

·       Answering questions.

·       Finding the right word to say, such as the names of objects, people or places.

·       Describing things or providing details.

·       Using correct grammar and complete sentences.

·       Telling clear stories or describing past events.

Early literacy skills

Before children can learn to read and write, they need an understanding of spoken language, the sounds that form words, and letters. Children may have difficulty:

·       Identifying sounds in words.

·       Recognising syllables and rhyming words. 

·       Blending sounds together to make words and segmenting words into sounds.

·       Linking spoken sounds to letters.

·       Understanding print concepts.

As the Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP) on the team, Theo has experience in providing comprehensive assessment and individualised therapy plans to support the development of children’s speech, language and early literacy skills. He has experience working in a variety of settings, including preschools, schools, and hospitals, as well as regional and remote areas.

If you have concerns about your child’s speech or language development, parents can make an appointment to visit the speech pathologist by contacting us at admin@involvehealthhub.com or calling (07) 3482 3466.