Paediatric speech and language therapy

Summary

The Greenwich Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy service supports children aged 0-19 with communication and eating difficulties. Through individual and group therapy, the program enhances children's communication skills in various settings, including homes and schools. Parents play an integral role, gaining insights through workshops and sessions. The service emphasizes early intervention, exemplified by the successful 'Bouncing Babies' program, which encourages communication from birth. Speech therapists collaborate with special schools to support children with diverse needs, fostering a fun learning environment that helps students thrive in inclusive settings. Overall, the program is dedicated to nurturing children's communication potential and supporting families.

Takeaways

• 👶 The Greenwich Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy service supports children aged 0-19 with communication problems and eating/drinking difficulties.
• 🗣️ Therapists focus on improving communication skills through targeted activities in early years, mainstream schools, and special schools.
• 🏫 Services are provided in various settings, including children's centers, schools, and homes, to better understand each child's strengths and needs.
• 🤗 Parents play a crucial role in their child's communication development, and services aim to enhance their understanding of effective communication strategies.
• 🎉 Children under 5 are primarily supported by the Early Years team, which can be accessed by anyone with parental consent.
• 🎤 The 'Bouncing Babies' program encourages early communication skills through singing and gestures, positively impacting children's future learning.
• 👦 Parent testimonials highlight the fun and social benefits of speech therapy, emphasizing confidence building through group sessions.
• 🧩 The special school team provides support for children with various challenges, including physical, learning, and emotional difficulties, as part of a multi-therapy approach.
• 🏫 All primary and secondary schools in Greenwich have dedicated Speech and Language Therapists, enhancing inclusive education.
• 🔍 Following assessments, therapists offer personalized advice and strategies to support each child's unique communication needs.

Q & A

What age range does the Greenwich Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy service cater to?

The service helps children aged 0-19 and their families who live in Greenwich.

What types of communication issues does the service address?

The service addresses communication problems as well as eating and drinking difficulties.

In what settings does the therapy service operate?

Therapists work across various settings including children's centers, schools, community locations, and people's homes.

How does the service assess a child's communication needs?

Children are seen for an initial appointment at their local health center, followed by an assessment to understand their strengths and needs.

What is the 'Bouncing Babies' program?

The 'Bouncing Babies' program is a singing gesture and communication group for babies and their families aimed at positively impacting children's future learning and development.

What is the role of Speech and Language Therapists in schools?

Speech and Language Therapists focus on developing communication skills, providing support for social communication, stammering, language understanding, and sound pronunciation.

What approach does the therapy service take to involve parents?

Parents can attend workshops and advice sessions to gain information about their child's communication development and the importance of communication.

How do children in special schools benefit from the therapy service?

The special school team supports children with various difficulties by working as part of a multi-therapy team, providing structured strategies that make learning enjoyable.

Who can refer a child to the Speech and Language Therapy service?

Anyone can refer a child to the service, as long as they have parental consent.

What impact does the therapy service have on children's educational experiences?

Children who receive speech and language therapy are better equipped to handle classroom environments, allowing them to achieve more in their educational settings.