Speech Pathology · Yagoona
Support for Language Delays
Helping children understand what they hear and put their thoughts into words, from the toddler years through primary school.
Overview
What Is a Language Delay?
Language is how we understand others and share our own ideas. It includes understanding words and instructions (receptive language) and using words and sentences to express ourselves (expressive language). Some children develop these skills more slowly than expected.
A language delay can look like a small vocabulary, short or jumbled sentences, or difficulty following instructions and answering questions. When language difficulties continue beyond the early years, they may be identified as Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), which affects around two children in every classroom.
Language underpins learning, friendships and behaviour. Children who can't understand or explain themselves may become frustrated, withdrawn or act out. With the right support, they can build these skills and the confidence that comes with them.
Signs & symptoms
Signs Your Child May Need Support
Every child develops differently. If any of the signs below sound familiar, it's worth reaching out for a professional opinion, even if you're not sure.
Every child develops at their own pace. If you're unsure, a quick chat with our team can help you decide whether an assessment is worthwhile.
What to expect
Our Assessment Process
We know assessments can feel daunting. Our process is thorough but warm, and we take our time to understand your child as a whole person.
Initial Enquiry
Refer through our online form or give us a call. We'll have a relaxed chat about your concerns and answer any questions.
Assessment Appointment
We see children in our Yagoona clinic or via telehealth. Beforehand, we'll ask about your child's development, hearing and any reports from preschool, school or other professionals.
During the Assessment
Through play, pictures and age-appropriate tasks, we look at how your child understands and uses words, sentences and stories. For school-aged children, we may use standardised assessments and ask for input from their teacher.
Feedback and Next Steps
We share our first impressions on the day. You'll then receive a clear, jargon-free report with our findings and recommendations.
Initial Enquiry
Refer through our online form or give us a call. We'll have a relaxed chat about your concerns and answer any questions.
Assessment Appointment
We see children in our Yagoona clinic or via telehealth. Beforehand, we'll ask about your child's development, hearing and any reports from preschool, school or other professionals.
During the Assessment
Through play, pictures and age-appropriate tasks, we look at how your child understands and uses words, sentences and stories. For school-aged children, we may use standardised assessments and ask for input from their teacher.
Feedback and Next Steps
We share our first impressions on the day. You'll then receive a clear, jargon-free report with our findings and recommendations.
Therapy
How We Build Language Skills
Therapy is built around your child's interests and the language they need for daily life at home, at preschool or at school. Younger children learn through play and everyday routines. Older children work on vocabulary, sentences, storytelling and the language of the classroom.
Working together
Parents are central to progress. We'll show you simple ways to support language in everyday moments, and with your consent, we can share strategies with your child's teacher or educator.
What we work on
- Building vocabulary and understanding of concepts
- Following and giving instructions
- Longer, more complex sentences
- Storytelling and explaining
- Classroom and curriculum language
- Strategies for parents and teachers
Play-Based Language Therapy
Child-led play that creates natural, motivating chances to learn and use new words and sentences.
Narrative Intervention
Structured work on telling and understanding stories, a key skill for success at school.
Parent and Teacher Coaching
Practical strategies for the adults around your child, so language support continues every day.
What families can expect
What Progress Typically Looks Like
We set measurable goals and track progress carefully, so you always know where your child is and where they're heading.
Ready to start? Our team is happy to answer your questions. There's no obligation, just a friendly conversation.
Refer NowCommon questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions? Our full FAQ page covers many more topics, or just give us a call and we'll help.
Related services
Related Services
Other areas our team supports. If you're not sure which is right for you, contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.
Ready to Get Started?
Not sure if this is the right fit? Contact us and we'll help you figure out the next step.
Prefer to talk? Call us on (02) 9052 6095