Supporting Communication Difficulties in the Classroom

Online webinar: Wednesday 27th September at 7pm

Speech, language and communication difficulties are one of the most common childhood developmental difficulties. Children with needs in this area may have significant, and often persistent, language disorders. Speech, Language & Communication Needs (SLCN) can happen in isolation or be part of a wider diagnosis such as Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) Down Syndrome or Autism Spectrum Disorder. The statistics show that at least one child in every classroom of 30 is likely to have DLD. Although DLD can affect academic, emotional and social development, supporting the development of effective communication skills can also have a positive impact on a child’s self-esteem, learning and ability to build relationships.

This webinar will provide strategies and advice on supporting children with communication difficulties in the classroom. It will outline strategies to support receptive and expressive language skills, as well as considering approaches relevant to support a wider range of Speech, Language & Communication Needs.

Objectives:

• Discuss what communication is and the different types of communication difficulties.
• Highlight the difference between receptive language and expressive language skills.
• Learn about Developmental Language Disorder.
• Provide a general overview of the prevalence of these communication difficulties.
• Outline common characteristics of communication difficulties and when to refer a child for Speech and Language Therapy.
• Discuss how to support children with Developmental Language Disorder and other speech, language and communication needs. Provide strategies to support the development of a range of communication skills.
• Touch on how to create a communication ‘friendly’ and supportive environment.

Who will benefit from attending this webinar?

Although this webinar is tailored more specifically to school staff such as classroom teachers, special needs assistants and resource teachers, it would also be beneficial for parents of children with speech, language and communication needs.

Workshop Presenter:

Róisín O’Sullivan, Paediatric Speech & Language Therapist at Sensational Kids, West Cork

Róisín joined our team at Sensational Kids at our child development centre in Clonakilty, West Cork, having graduated with an honours degree in Speech and Language Therapy from the National University of Ireland, Galway in 2020.

Róisín has experience working in a variety of settings and has amassed a wealth of varying skills in busy demanding environments. Róisín has experience working with clients of all ages. She has worked with children in both primary care settings and disability services. Róisín has also worked with adults in an acute hospital and in a residential centre for adults with an intellectual disability. Róisín has planned and conducted both individual and group intervention. Róisín has worked with different health care professionals and teachers and has participated in teacher and parent training sessions to provide them with strategies to support communication and language development. In addition, Róisín has experience in the assessment and treatment of feeding, eating, drinking, and swallowing (FEDS) difficulties. Róisín was involved in the implementation of the new FEDS guidelines in an acute hospital. She provided education and training on The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative to staff and to clients and their families.

Róisín has always been very interested in working with children with disabilities. She really enjoys working with children, their parents, and others in their environment such as their teachers, to help support the child and work on the goals identified by the client and their family.

• Regular Rate for bookings up to 31st July 2023 €25
• Late Booking Rate for bookings made on or after 1st August 2023 €30