Identification of Speech, Language and Communication Needs

Early identification of Speech, Language and Communication Needs can make a huge difference in determining the necessary support, intervention or referral pathway. In this section, we have included:

Online progress checkers that can be used to identify which area of communication a child may be struggling with.
Links to researched based Speech and Language screening tools.
Links to Speech and Language services in different regions.
Links to external courses for further CPD on Speech, Language and Communication Needs.

Ages and stages - Speech & Language UK

Children develop their speech, language and communication skills at different rates. However, knowing what is typical can help you identify speech and language problems early. From the Speech and Language UK website, here is a guide to the typical stages of speech and language development in babies, children and young people.

Progress Checker - Speech & Language UK

This progress checker can be used to identify which area of communication a child may be struggling with. Select the age of the child and answer the questions. At the end of the questions you will be directed to some useful resources to support that child’s area of need.

Talk to a speech and language advisor - Speech and Language UK

You can arrange a time to speak with a speech and language advisor to gather some further advice. This service is also available to parents and carers.

The Afasic Helpline - Afasic

A service parents can call to speak to an advisor if they are worried about their child’s speech, language and communication skills.

Speech and Language screening tools

So, what exactly is a speech and language screener? Think of it as a quick check-up for a child's communication skills. It's not a full evaluation, but rather a snapshot of how a child is developing in areas like understanding words (receptive language), using words (expressive language), and speaking clearly (articulation). Screeners often involve simple tasks and questions designed to highlight potential areas of concern. For example, a screener might ask a child to point to pictures of common objects, follow simple instructions, or repeat words.

Early intervention, meaning getting help as soon as possible, can make a huge difference. If potential issues are recognized through a screener, the child can be referred for a comprehensive evaluation and, if needed, receive specialized therapy. This support can help them catch up and avoid future challenges.

WellComm - GL Assessment

WellComm is a screening tool and intervention programme. WellComm helps you to identify pre-school and primary school children who are experiencing barriers to speech and language development. Available for Early Years and Primary-aged pupils, the toolkits are quick and simple to use. WellComm requires no speech and language expertise – anyone within a nursery or school can use it.

Nuffield Early Language Intervention (NELI)

NELI programme timeline. An overview of the Nuffield Early Language Intervention which is an intervention suitable for 4-5 year olds to support. The intervention targets children’s spoken language skills. It comprises of work targeting children’s listening skills, storytelling skills and vocabulary. It also works on children’s ability to listen to sounds in preparation for phonics.