Supporting Your Child’s Communication

Every child learns to communicate in their own way and at their own pace. This page is here to help you support your child’s speech, language and communication skills.

You’ll find information, practical tips and links to trusted websites. These can help you understand your child’s needs and give you ideas to try at home.

How Can These Resources Help?

We recommend looking through these resources before making a referral to the Speech and Language Therapy Service.

They can also be helpful if your child:

• Is waiting for their first appointment
• Has already been seen by the service
• Needs extra support with specific communication skills

Understanding Communication Skills

Communication is made up of lots of different skills that work together.

You can think of them like pieces of a puzzle. As children develop these skills, the pieces gradually fit together and help them to:

• Understand what others are saying
• Share their thoughts, needs and ideas
• Join in with conversations and activities
• Build relationships with others

Children may find some areas easier than others, and that’s okay.

Explore the Different Areas of Communication

The sections below explain the different skills children need for communication.

Each section includes:

• A simple explanation of the skill
• Practical tips and strategies
• Activities to try at home
• Useful videos and websites

You may find it helpful to look through each section in turn. If you notice your child is struggling with a particular skill, try some of the suggested ideas to help them practise and develop that area.

Specific Speech and Language Difficulties

Further down the page, you’ll find information about specific speech, language and communication difficulties, such as stammering.

Many of these can be a normal part of development, especially in younger children. If you have concerns, you’ll find advice, information and practical strategies to help support your child.

Remember

💡 You know your child best. Every child develops differently, and children often need different amounts of support at different times.

If you’re worried about your child’s speech, language or communication, these resources are a good place to start and can help you decide whether you need further support.

My Child Needs Help

Every child develops communication skills in their own way and at their own pace. If you’re concerned about your child’s communication, we’re here to help.

What areas of communication is your child finding difficult?

Use the sections below to explore different areas of communication. Each section explains what the skill is, how difficulties might present, and provides practical ideas and activities you can try at home to support your child’s development.

💡 Not sure where to start?
Begin with Attention and Listening. The “What is…?” information may help you identify whether this describes some of the challenges your child is experiencing.

Browse the sections below to find information and support that feels most relevant to your child.