Speech, Language and Communication

We understand how important it is for all children to be able to communicate successfully. Without clear speech and an understanding of how communication works, children are not able to access learning effectively. 

 At Martham and East Ruston, all KS1 and EYFS staff have completed a short online course from The Communication Trust-Speech and Language UK -An introduction to Speech, Language and Communication

We assess all pupils in the EYFS and key stage one who we have concerns about. We use the Wellcomm assessment and support book for intervention. We have a speech and language therapist to advise and support us with this.

After 8-10 weeks of intervention, we may refer a child to the NHS Speech and Therapy service.

The communication pyramid is a simple way to show how communication develops. The skills at the bottom come first and need to be in place in order to support the development of the skills higher up.

The foundation for ALL communication skills is Attention and Listening!  The ability to focus, maintain concentration and shift from one object or topic to another develops from birth and improves with age.

Supporting these skills will provide children with the very best environment to develop their understanding and use of language – it will help them to climb the pyramid!

How you can help you child at home

Make time to have conversations with your child. Ask them how their day at school was and how their friends are, tell them about your day. Encourage them to talk to you and ask you questions too. 

Turn off the TV and your phone and have time together playing or looking at books.

Use simple clear language when talking to your child. Think about what your child can understand and use language at that level. Imagine some stairs. 

Everyday activities are really interesting to your child. They are an opportunity to talk and play with you. Talk together as you do the task about what you are doing. This will help children to link spoken language to the world around them.

Help your child to learn and understand new words by talking about the meanings of words.

Ask open questions like ‘tell me something you liked about today’. To begin with you might need to give them examples to help them answer the questions.

Listening skills are just as important in communicating. Modelling good listening skills yourself will help your child develop theirs. Making sure you listen, acknowledge and respond to what they have said.

Share a picture book together