Supporting Communication at Springhead
Speech, language and communication are fundamental skills that support learning, wellbeing and relationships.
At Springhead Primary School, we recognise that strong communication skills underpin success across the curriculum and enable children to express themselves, build friendships and develop confidence. We place great importance on identifying and supporting communication needs as early as possible.
We work closely with families and, where appropriate, specialist professionals to ensure children receive the support they need to communicate effectively and participate fully in school life.
Why is Communication Important?
Communication skills support children to:
- Understand and follow instructions.
- Express their thoughts, ideas and feelings.
- Build friendships and positive relationships.
- Participate confidently in classroom activities.
- Develop reading and writing skills.
- Improve self-esteem and independence.
- Access all areas of the curriculum.
Strong communication skills provide the foundation for learning, social development and future success.
How We Support Speech, Language and Communication
Support may include:
- Quality First Teaching strategies.
- Visual timetables and visual supports.
- Time to Talk interventions.
- Socially Speaking programmes.
- Speech and Language Therapy programmes.
- Structured speaking and listening activities.
- Small group communication interventions.
- Social communication support.
- Close liaison with Speech and Language Therapists where appropriate.
Support is tailored to individual needs and regularly reviewed to ensure that children make progress.
How Can Parents Help?
Parents and carers play a key role in supporting communication development.
Read Together Daily
Sharing stories helps children develop vocabulary, understanding and imagination.
Sing Rhymes and Songs
Rhymes and songs help children recognise sound patterns and develop listening skills.
Play Listening Games
Encourage attention, turn-taking and sound awareness through games and play.
Ask Questions
Use questions beginning with:
- Who?
- What?
- Where?
- When?
- Why?
to encourage discussion and understanding.
Model Language
Repeat words and sentences clearly and naturally without demanding children repeat them perfectly.
Reduce Background Noise
Provide opportunities for focused conversations without distractions from televisions, tablets or other devices.
Enjoy Face-to-Face Interaction
Talking, playing and sharing experiences together are some of the most valuable ways to support communication development.
Useful Resources
Speech and Language UK
https://speechandlanguage.org.uk
A charity offering advice, guidance and practical resources to support speech, language and communication development.
The Communication Trust
https://www.thecommunicationtrust.org.uk
Afasic
I CAN Talking Point
https://ican.org.uk/i-cans-talking-point/parents/