The Importance of Early Identification of Speech, Language and Communication Delays, and the Potential Risks of Late Recognition.

Getting to know and recognising the signs of speech, language and communication delays are extremely important as in the first five years of a child's life, the child will at first babble a lot and its the reaction and conversation the child gets back from their caregiver that gives them the confidence and encouragement to build on the babble to eventually say words and then sentences. If the child has a speech delay they may not babble as much at all this in turn means they won’t get as much conversation and encouragement from their caregiver, this can then cause further delays down the line. That’s why it is important to notice the signs early if a child is not at the correct communication and language stage as others their age.
Signs that there may be a problem are; mispronunciation of words, not using enough words or not using any at all, the results of these delays may be that the child becomes withdrawn and frustrated, thus, showing unwanted behaviour. There are many reasons why speech, language and communication may be delayed, brain damage, physical disabilities and sensory impairment are just three but the earlier the problem and cause are recognised the easier it is to assist. If the signs ar not recognised at an early age then the child is at risk of being labelled as a ‘naughty child’ as they will most likely be withdrawn, frustrated, have poor social skills and behaviour problems, this in turn means they won’t be receiving the correct appropriate care they need in order to reach their full potential.
How multi agency teams work together to support development of speech, communication and language.
Some of the professional teams that may be involved in supporting a child with additional needs are;
Local Education Authority, which includes;
• Special needs support teachers
• Special needs advisors
• Specialist teachers
• Education welfare officers
Health services, which includes;
• Paediatricians
• Health visitors
• Physiotherapists
•...