Speech and language disorders refer to problems communicating or difficulties with using muscles in and around the mouth. These delays and disorders range from using a different or incorrect sound or finding it hard to understand others' use of language.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a life-long disorder that affects the way a person is able to communicate and socialise. Some people with ASD will also have learning disabilities. There are some people with ASD who have an average or above-average intelligence. Included in this group are those with Asperger's Syndrome (or high-functioning autism). Some people with ASD may struggle to use words correctly or understand them. They often have difficulties with social skills, show a narrow range of interests or difficulty using their imagination.
We are lucky to have our own Speech and Language Therapist who works with us one day a week. Jenni's expertise is put to work training teaching assistants in speech and language interventions, working 1:1 with high needs children, monitoring children under the NHS and monitoring bespoke packages she has written.
Alongside Jenni, we also work with the Autism Team to employ strategies suggested in classrooms to support children with ASD.