Some children struggle with forming speech sounds and may find it difficult to be understood. Others may struggle with learning and using language appropriately.

Some ways that you can support at home:

• When a child has difficulty making themselves understood, use alternative methods: can you show me? Give alternatives, e.g. Do you mean lunch box or book bag? Gently model speech back to them, ‘A big dar!’ ‘Oh did you see the big car?’
• Avoid asking the child to repeat back the correct pronunciation.
• Give feedback, ‘Is it a big dar or a big car?’
• Explain language and new words using pictures and videos to help with understanding.
• Watch the videos below for training on supporting your child.
• Children with severe speech and language difficulties can be referred to speech and language therapy (NHS). Speak to the SENCo if you have concerns.

Further information and support:

https://speechandlanguage.info/parents

https://speechandlanguage.org.uk/information-and-support/

Language videos for parents:

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

Speech video for parents:

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

Stammer video for parents:

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

Some children struggle with forming speech sounds and may find it difficult to be understood. Others may struggle with learning and using language appropriately.

Some ways that you can support at home:

• When a child has difficulty making themselves understood, use alternative methods: can you show me? Give alternatives, e.g. Do you mean lunch box or book bag? Gently model speech back to them, ‘A big dar!’ ‘Oh did you see the big car?’
• Avoid asking the child to repeat back the correct pronunciation.
• Give feedback, ‘Is it a big dar or a big car?’
• Explain language and new words using pictures and videos to help with understanding.
• Watch the videos below for training on supporting your child.
• Children with severe speech and language difficulties can be referred to speech and language therapy (NHS). Speak to the SENCo if you have concerns.

Further information and support:

https://speechandlanguage.info/parents

https://speechandlanguage.org.uk/information-and-support/

Language videos for parents:

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

Speech video for parents:

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

Stammer video for parents:

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