Speech & Language Therapy

The Speech and Language Therapy Department offers a service to both children and adults with a wide range of communication difficulties.

Self-Help Checklist

If you are concerned about your child's speech or language development check the following:

• Have you discussed your concerns with your health visitor/school nurse or school staff?
  They will be able to give you advice about normal development and some strategies to try. They are also trained to make decisions around referrals to a wide range of agencies.
• Have you registered for a free family fun pack? - log onto www.stokespeaksout.org
• Have you followed the advice and tips on the Stoke Speaks Out website?
• Have you taken your child to local groups which support language development? eg children's centre, toddler group, library, museum.
  Information on these services is available via parent direct on 0800 0151 120 or www.stokewhatsup.co.uk
• Have you helped your child (over 12 months to get rid of dummies and bottles?
• Do you have quiet times at home where there is no T.V/music on whilst you play with your child?
• Do you regularly read stories to your child? (from birth)
• Do you listen to your child and give him/her time to talk?
• Does your child have opportunity to play with other children of a similar age? There are lots of community sessions in and around your local area e.g. library story telling session, playgroups, sessions at children's centres and leisure centres.