Children Services

Our team of expert therapists offer a wide range of Speech and Language Therapy Services for children

Our expert therapists provide support for a range of speech, language and communication needs including:

Language delay

Developmental language disorder (DLD)

Speech sound difficulties

Autism

ADHD

Language Delay

Some children’s language does not develop at the typical ages and stages. There may be many reasons for this. An initial assessment and therapy can be provided to support language development.

What is a Language Delay?

Language delay refers to a condition where a child’s language development does not progress at the typical age and stage. It is relatively common and can occur for various reasons, including hearing issues, developmental differences, or no clear cause at all. It can affect both expressive language (speaking and using words) and receptive language (understanding what others say).

A language delay can present in several ways:

Fewer words used than expected for the child’s age.
Difficulty using phrases and sentences appropriate to their developmental stage.
Struggling to follow instructions or questions.
Communication difficulties may lead to frustration as your child tries to express themselves.
Limited language skills may affect a child’s ability to interact with others

However, with the right support, children can make progress with their language development.

What is a Speech Sound Difficulty?

When a child’s speech is less well pronounced and more difficult to understand compared to other children of the same age, this might be because of a speech difficulty.

When a child’s speech is very difficult to understand compared to other children of the same age speaking the same language, the cause may be a speech sound disorder (SSD). There are several different types of SSD which can be diagnosed and treated by Speech and language therapists.

Developmental Language Disorder

What is DLD?

Developmental Language Disorder affects both children and adults.

Children and adults with language difficulties can experience some or all of the below:

Find it difficult to understand language and process information

Find it hard to follow instructions

Find it difficult to answer questions

Struggle to put words and thoughts together in a way that is easily understood by others

Find it difficult to follow and join in a conversation

Developmental Language Disorder or DLD is one of the most common, (1 in 14 people) yet least known neurodevelopmental conditions and is described as a hidden disability. Awareness is increasing about this neurodevelopmental condition, and assessments are on the increase, especially for those who may also have ADHD.

DLD or Language Disorder often co-occurs with other neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia and autism. The impact of undiagnosed language difficulties can significantly affect educational, social, mental health/wellbeing and employment.

For information about autism or ADHD assessments, please get in touch.

Early Connections Programme:

Early Connections is all about helping families with young children build stronger, more meaningful connections through approaches that support your child’s communication and overall development.

As a speech and language therapist, Ros is a parent of three (including a child with a disability), She has seen first hand how powerful the right strategies can be in nurturing your ability to connect with your child and the knock on effects on their development. That's why she is passionate about sharing research-backed, connection-based methods that really make a difference.

Ros knows how challenging it can be to figure out how to best support your child’s development, especially with so much conflicting advice out there. That’s where Early Connections comes in, helping you move away from approaches based on blame and punishment and instead focus on empathy, understanding, and positive communication.

Through tailored courses, Ros will guide you with practical tools and strategies to strengthen your child’s communication skills, meet their emotional needs, and build a more connected relationship.

Who This is For?

Early Connections is designed for parents of young children who want to support their child’s communication development in a nurturing, connected way.

If you’re a parent looking to build a stronger, more positive relationship with your child while improving their ability to express themselves, you’re in the right place. Our courses are especially helpful for:

Parents who are navigating speech or language delays
Families who want to move away from punishment-based approaches and embrace more empathetic, connection-focused parenting
Parents of children with additional needs or disabilities who are seeking tailored strategies for communication and emotional development
First-time parents or caregivers wanting to build a strong foundation for healthy, open communication with their child

If you’re ready to create a supportive environment where your child feels heard, understood, and empowered, Early Connections is here to help.

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