Speech & Language Therapy Services (Children)

What does our service offer?

• Assessment
• Advice
• Diagnosis-if appropriate
• Therapy – this may be direct (therapist working directly with child) or indirect (therapist working through a parent, carer or other professional)
• Programmes and resources to support work at home and in a setting
• Training: child specific or topic specific

Therapists work in the community in a wide range of settings. These include: family homes, community clinics, hospital, schools, nurseries, children’s centres.

We work in partnership with a range of other agencies including Education and Early Years Services, Social Services and the Voluntary Sector.
 

What will happen at Speech and Language Therapy?

The speech and language therapist will ask you some questions about your child’s development. It is helpful if you bring your ‘red book’ along and any other referral letters you have had. The therapist may use toys and pictures to encourage your child to interact. They will discuss their findings with you and agree on the next steps.

How to refer to Speech and Language Therapy

A referral can be made by a Health Visitor, teacher, nursery practitioner, G.P., other professional, parent or those with parental responsibility. Please contact your local SLT team for referral advice.

Things to try at home

There are many ways parents and carers can support their child's speech and language development. For children in the early years (aged 0 to 5) the following websites may be helpful:

• Stoke Speaks Out is an initiative set up to support children's speech and language development.
• You can also follow Stoke Speaks Out on Facebook.
• The BBC website Tiny Happy People helps you develop your child's communication skills. They have a selection of simple activities and play ideas to help with early development.