What do Family Learning speech pathologists do?

Family Learning speech pathologists help children develop their communication skills in areas such as listening, speaking, reading and writing. This can include learning to use the correct sounds in words (i.e. speech) or learning how to put words together to communicate (i.e. language).

Family Learning speech pathologists can help children build their communication skills by developing your child’s spoken language or using other methods such as key words signs (KWS) or augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

What are some signs that my child may need speech pathology?

If you have any concerns around your child’s communication, it is always recommended to talk with a speech pathologist. Please contact us if you notice that your child:

• does not respond to their name or respond to sound

• is not babbling much

• is difficult to understand

• has difficulty following instructions

• becomes frustrated/upset if they can’t communicate clearly

• finds it difficult to combine words to make sentences

• has spelling or reading difficulties

• is not meeting developmental milestones.

What happens during a speech pathology assessment?

The speech pathologists will select a variety of tools to gain information on your child’s communication skills. This may include formal assessments, language/speech samples or interviews with parents/caregivers. The speech pathologist’s goal during assessment is to get an accurate picture of your child’s skills. The assessment may identify your child’s strengths and areas that your child needs support. These will be provided in a written report.

What happens during a speech pathology session?

During the session, the speech pathologist will work on activities to support your child’s communication skills. This may include:

• catching up on how your child has progressed since the last session

• completing fun activities that are engaging to help your child learn new skills

• discussing strategies with the parent/caregiver and modelling them during the session

• showing activities that the family can do at home

• using movement/sensory breaks so the child is ready to learn

• providing a practice task to do during the week.

How long do speech pathology sessions go for?

At Family Learning, we want to provide the best speech pathology service to families. We recommend 50 minute face-to-face sessions. This provides enough time to complete multiple activities and discuss any strategies/follow-up. If you would like a shorter session, please discuss this with your Family Learning speech pathologist.

How much does speech pathology cost?

Our speech pathology sessions are charged as per current NDIS rate. We charge 50 minutes for the face-to-face session and an additional 10 minutes for preparation and planning. We also charge travel to and from the location as per NDIS rate.

Do I need to be present during my child’s speech pathology session?

Yes. Family Learning encourages parents and caregivers to be a part of speech pathology sessions so they can practice the skills with their kids at home. We are a child safe organisation. An adult needs to be able to see/hear the speech session no matter where it takes place - home or school.

What payment options are available?

Families can pay for services via NDIS funding, Medicare funding (EPC or CDM) or paying out-of-pocket.