PepTalk Speech Pathology Services

23/05/2026

Using keyword sign supports children to develop autonomy by giving them another way to express their wants, needs, thoughts, and feelings. It helps children have their own voice, especially when spoken language is still developing, reducing frustration and increasing confidence in communication. By providing a visual and physical way to communicate, keyword sign empowers children to actively participate in interactions, make choices, and feel heard and understood by others.

It is important that communication support focuses on the child’s own wants, needs, and ideas rather than adults speaking for them. The goal is not to use facilitated language or put words into a child’s mouth, but to support and encourage their own language, signs, choices, and authentic communication in a way that respects their individuality and autonomy.

Key Message 9:
When choosing signs to use with an individual we need to consider:
(a) what a person wants, needs, and has the ability to communicate,
and (b) what they are interested in and motivated by.

21/05/2026

Look what's coming! Register now to be on the waitlist at https://www.peptalkspeech.com/group-therapy or email us at admin@peptalkspeech.com for more information!

13/05/2026

Here’s a quick breakdown of how language skills typically develop over time:

1️⃣ Pre-linguistic (0–6 months)
Babies communicate through crying, eye contact, facial expressions, cooing, and reacting to voices/sounds.

2️⃣ Early Single Words (6–18 months)
Children begin using meaningful single words such as “mama,” “ball,” or “more.”

3️⃣ Two-Word Combinations (18–30 months)
Toddlers start combining words to express ideas, e.g., “more juice” or “mum go.”

4️⃣ Telegraphic Speech (2–3 years)
Children use short phrases with key words, often leaving out smaller grammar words. Example: “Daddy go work.”

5️⃣ Expanding Sentences (3–4 years)
Sentences become longer and more detailed. Children begin using grammar more consistently and asking lots of questions.

6️⃣ Complex Sentences (4–5 years)
Children start linking ideas together using words like “because,” “and,” or “when,” while improving storytelling skills.

7️⃣ Fluent Speech (5+ years)
Speech becomes more organised, detailed, and easier for unfamiliar listeners to understand. Children continue refining vocabulary and conversation skills.

⚠️ Reminder: These age ranges are rough developmental guidelines only. Every child develops language differently, and some variation is completely normal. If you have concerns about your child’s communication development, speaking with a speech pathologist can help provide support and reassurance.

📚 Reference:
Owens, R. E. (2020). Language Development: An Introduction 10th ed.). Pearson.

09/05/2026

Happy Mother’s Day! Today we celebrate the people helping children find their voice, one moment at a time 💛

06/05/2026

Wondering if your child’s speech is on track? By around age 6, most children can say nearly all speech sounds (even “r”and “th”). Some variation is normal—but trust your instincts and seek advice if you’re concerned.

30/04/2026

Do you have one of these at home?

A trampoline can be an easy (and fun!) way to build speech practice into your routine. Try practicing speech sounds with each jump — e.g. “sss” every time they bounce.

You can also:
• Count jumps to work on early language and turn-taking
• Practice target sounds in words (e.g. “sun”, “see”, “sit”)
• Use action words like “go”, “stop”, “up”, “down”
• Build short sentences: “I jump high!”, “My turn now”
• Play simple games like “ready, set, go!” Or “Simon says” to target listening and attention
• Ask WH questions: “Who is jumping?”, “What are you doing?”

Keep it playful, keep it short, and follow your child’s lead 💬 .

29/04/2026

27/06/2019

https://peptalkspeech.com/peprally/updates

Hi everyone, We are in the process of getting our new and revamped website finished— bare with us! Please stay tuned for more details. Check back here for new blog posts, tips, and much more! Unfortunately, I am not currently booking new clients, but please stayed tuned.

12/04/2019

This 26 year old is living proof that anything is possible no matter what life throws at you. Don’t let your disability stop you for achieving your dreams, remember to always reach for the stars and don’t let anyone or anything get in your way.

05/02/2019

Chatbots and virtual personal assistants are becoming an integral part of our daily lives. They could change how we talk to each other, and how we relate to ourselves.

01/11/2018

Hi everyone!
We haven’t forgotten about you! Some life events have gotten us on a little hiatus these past few months. Our founder got married, and we have received a tremendous volume in calls! PepTalk will do their best to see everyone they can.

Stay tuned for more information— we will be posting our readvised availability! Thanks for the patience, support, and interest ❤️