Speech, Language and Communication Needs
To get started with speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN) it is important to understand the differences between them. This short video provides a brief but clear overview of speech and language components.
​Impact of SLCN
- Reading difficulties - the reading age gap can go from 3 months at age 6 to 5 years by age 14
- 15% of children with SLCN achieve 5 or more GCSEs at grade C or above
- Children with SLCN are more likely to be bullied, feel less able or popular than peers, and at higher risk of mental health difficulties
- May exhibit behavioural difficulties designed to mask their underlying difficulties
Parent Guides
You will find helpful resources for supporting your child's needs here:
Questions to ask your child’s school . If you have a child with speech, language and communication needs, you will want to ensure your child is receiving the best support at school so they can take part, learn and make friends.
https://ican.org.uk/i-cans-talking-point/parents/
The SEN system and your rights These info sheets give parents the essential information they need to know in order to find their way around the special educational needs system and to know what help they are entitled to under the law.
https://www.afasic.org.uk/resources/free-downloads/
Information for Teachers
Excellent teacher guides to SLCN can be found here:
Speech and Language Communication Needs (SLCN) - what teachers need to know
Speech Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) info for secondary schools
Classroom strategies to help support students with SLCN can be found here