The Communication Station - Paediatric Speech and Language Therapy

11/09/2025

👶💬Around 12 months, many little ones may start saying simple words, babbling with meaning, and using gestures like waving 👋 or pointing 👉. Every child grows at their own pace—these milestones are just a guide 👶
Using books, songs and rhymes at this age are great ways to develop early communication skills 📖 🎶

09/09/2025

Speech and language therapist Alys Mathers talks about finding new ways to communicate through Makaton, body language and gestures for children with additional needs.

09/09/2025

07/09/2025

😀

04/09/2025

😄Initial assessment sessions are all about getting to know your child in a way that feels natural and fun.
Activities are carefully chosen to match each child’s unique needs, with plenty of opportunities for play, exploration, and connection—no need to sit at the table! Sessions are child-led, with gentle invitations to play and lots of space for parents’ insights and concerns.

Together, we build a clear picture to support your child’s speech and language journey. 💬🌟

03/09/2025

🌟 3Ways to Support Smooth Transitions ✨

Transitions (like moving from one activity to another) can be tough for kids! Here are 3 simple strategies that make them easier ⬇️

1️⃣ Visual Timetables
Use tools like First–Then boards or picture schedules so your child knows what’s coming next.
👉 Example: “First snack 🍎, then outside play 🛝.”

2️⃣ Countdowns
Give clear signals before a change happens.
👉 Example: “5 more minutes… 2 more minutes… last turn, then tidy up.”

3️⃣ Offer Choices
Empower your child with simple options to ease the shift.
👉 Example: “Do you want to put toys in the box first, or on the shelf first?”

🌟 These simple strategies can make transitons smoother for everyone 😁

31/08/2025

Here are three honest things I’d tell you as your child’s Speech and Language Therapist, if I wasn’t worried about hurting your feelings.

⚠️First, when your child is talking, please take the dummy out of their mouth—speaking clearly is much harder when something is in the way, and they need the chance to practise proper sounds.

⚠️Second, instead of telling your child to “use their words”, try giving them the exact words or phrases you’d like them to copy—this makes it easier and less frustrating for them.

⚠️Finally, try to hold back from asking so many questions; it can put pressure on your child. Instead, model the kind of language you’d like them to use in a natural way, so they hear and learn from your example.

28/08/2025

Check out our competition on Instagram!

25/08/2025

🌟 A communication-friendly environment is one where everyone can take part and feel understood. This means using a total communication approach – combining real objects, photos, symbols, Makaton signs, spoken words, and other AAC systems to support communication. 💜💗 By valuing every method of expression, we break down barriers and make sure every voice is heard. ✨

21/08/2025

🗣️✨ Boosting Speech & Language with Nursery Rhymes ✨🎶

Did you know nursery rhymes aren’t just cute songs? They’re powerful tools for supporting your child’s speech and language development! 🌟

Here’s how they help:
🎵 Rhythm & Repetition – Builds listening skills and helps children learn new words.
👂 Sound Awareness – Rhymes highlight different sounds, laying the foundation for early reading.
👐 Memory & Sequencing – Repeating lines and actions strengthens recall.
💬 Vocabulary Growth – Exposes children to new and playful language.
🤝 Connection – Singing together makes learning fun and builds confidence.

✨ Try it today: Pick a favorite rhyme (like Twinkle, Twinkle ⭐) and add actions to bring the words to life.

📌 Remember: Repetition is key — don’t worry about singing it again and again!

20/08/2025

Using real objects to support communication is a great strategy. By showing an object and linking it to the spoken word during everyday routines it can help understanding of language. Children can also use real objects to make choices, helping them communicate their needs and reduce frustration 😀

19/08/2025

⚠️Lets talk about Glue Ear and How it Can Impact on Speech and Language Development⚠️