🌞 Summer of Support: Subsidised Speech Therapy Assessments for Families in Need 🌞

We know that the summer holidays can be a challenging time for many families - routines shift, support can be harder to access, and the costs of keeping everything afloat can really add up.

At our South West London clinic, we want to do something meaningful to give back to our community. That’s why throughout August, we’re offering subsidised speech and language assessments for families in need - because every child deserves access to support, no matter the circumstances.

💛 What We're Offering:

• Full speech and language assessment for £100

• Available to families in financial difficulty or those in need of support

• Appointments will run every Wednesday in August

🌱 Why We're Doing This:

The summer can be an especially tough time when it comes to accessing timely services and we’re deeply aware of how overwhelming it can feel when your child needs support, but you’re unsure how to afford or access it. This is our way of standing alongside families who are doing their best under difficult circumstances.

If this sounds like something that would help your family, or someone you know, we encourage you to get in touch. We’re here to listen, support, and help you take that next step.

📩 To enquire about eligibility or book a slot, please contact us here

We are here to make this a summer where families feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Worried About Your Late Talker? Here’s How to Prepare for a GP Appointment

If you’re feeling concerned about your child’s language development, you’re not alone, and taking the step to book a GP appointment is an important one. But how can you make the most of that appointment and ensure you get the answers and support you need?

Here are some practical tips to help you go in prepared and confident.

1. Start by Writing Down What You’ve Noticed

Begin by reflecting on what you’ve observed in your child’s communication. Focus on:

• When they started babbling

• When (or if) they began using words

• Any changes in how they use language
  (e.g., were there words they used to say that they no longer use?)

This information helps your GP build a clear picture of your child’s development.

2. Think Beyond Words

Communication is about more than just talking. Consider:

• Is your child showing signs of frustration?
  Emotional reactions like frequent frustration can be a key indicator and are important to mention.

• How well do they understand you?
  Are they following simple instructions? Responding to their name?

• How are they interacting socially?
  Do they play with friends? Are they engaging with others during play?

Speech therapists look at a wide range of communication skills, not just spoken words, so this context matters.

3. Additional Support You Can Explore

While waiting for a referral or next steps, two great starting points are:

• Book a hearing test.
  Hearing plays a major role in language development. It’s always a good idea to rule out any issues here.

• Visit your local children’s centre.
  These centres often offer playgroups and sessions that focus on developing communication and social skills in a fun, supportive environment.

Final Thoughts

Going into your GP appointment with detailed observations and an open mind can make a big difference in getting the right support for your child. Trust your instincts, you know your little one best, and remember, you're not in this alone.

Your Summer of Support: Helping Late Talkers Bloom at Home

Summer is here - and with it comes a slower pace, more outdoor play, and new routines. For parents of young children, this season can be the perfect opportunity to support your child's speech and language development in simple, playful ways.

If your child is a late talker (using fewer words than expected for their age), don’t panic - but don’t “wait and see” either. Small, consistent strategies at home can make a big difference. That’s why we’re launching Summer of Support: weekly tips, activities, and encouragement to help your little one find their voice - at their own pace.

🌱 Who is a “Late Talker”?

A late talker is typically a child under 3 who has a good understanding of language, play skills, and social interaction — but uses fewer spoken words than expected.

For example, by 18 months, most children use around 20 words. By 24 months, that number jumps to 100+ and includes simple two-word phrases like “more juice” or “daddy go.”

If your child:

• Says fewer than 50 words at age 2

• Isn’t combining words by 2.5

• Seems to understand more than they say
  👉 They may be a late talker.

And the good news? Early support makes a huge difference.

🍓 Why Summer is a Great Time to Support Speech

Summer naturally brings:

• More one-on-one time

• Flexible routines

• Outdoor play and new experiences
  These everyday moments create natural, low-pressure opportunities to encourage language.

🏡 3 Easy Summer Activities to Boost Language at Home

1. Snack Time = Speech Time

Use snack prep to model:

• Choices: Hold up 2 options and ask your child what they want (e.g. “Do you want apple or banana?”)

• Requests: Model the word your little one needs, and then pause to allow them the opportunity to request (e.g. “Juice?…”)

• Describing: When your little one is eating, comment on what they are enjoying (e.g. “Cold yogurt. Crunchy cracker.”)

✅ TIP: Let your child help with pouring, scooping, or choosing - these shared tasks invite more language!

2. Talk While You Walk

Nature walks are rich with vocabulary. Try:

• Labeling: “Leaf. Bird. Truck!”

• Asking simple questions: “What do you see?”

• Using fun sounds: “Vroom!” “Tweet tweet!”

✅ TIP: Repeat key words 2–3 times to reinforce them.

3. Water Play Words

Bath time, sprinklers, or a bowl of water all offer chances to:

• Narrate actions: “Pour. Splash. Wash.”

• Use pretend play: “Let’s wash the baby doll.”

• Practice turn-taking: “Your turn, my turn!”

✅ TIP: Repetition and routines help late talkers feel confident to try new words.

💬 You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

At South West Speech Therapy, we support families through in-clinic and online sessions designed to empower you with strategies that truly work.

➡️ Book a Parent Q&A session with one of our highly specialist speech and language therapists
➡️ Or get in touch to make a referral to our team