Speech & Language
Upon entry to Nursery / Reception staff use an assessment known as Wellcomm to assess children's speech and language development.
What does WellComm do?
It screens children for speech and language ability, often identifying problems before they become more serious, and provides activities to address them.
Who uses it?
A very wide range of early years practitioners, teachers, SENCOs and Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) across early years and primary settings. It is a complete package of screening and support and at Highfield it is delivered by Teaching assistants and HLTA.
When is the best time to use WellComm?
At Highfield we assess children during the first 6-8 weeks of starting Nursery / Reception earlier if we suspect a child of having underlying speech and/or language problems. We screen again after a period of 6-8 weeks to measure the impact of the intervention we have put in place.
Is WellComm suitable for use with EAL children?
Yes, because it’s a very visual test it can be conducted with EAL children in their own language, so you can find out if any issues are actually down to a language barrier rather than developmental needs.
How do WE decide whether referral to SLT services is needed?
Red indicators in the traffic light reports flag which children may benefit from SLT support. Children with amber indicators can be helped initially by school-based interventions to see if they improve without external support. In this way we know which children most urgently need help. When we apply for SLT services, WellComm’s reports support the referral process in Trafford.
The video below provides great examples in supporting your child's language development at home.
Supporting my child at home
I CAN CHARITY
I CAN is the children’s communication charity. They are experts in helping children develop the speech, language and communication skills they need to thrive in a 21st century world. Their vision is a world where all children have the communication skills they need to fulfil their potential. Their mission is that no child should be left out or left behind because of a difficulty speaking or understanding.
Click on the image below to go to the I CAN website to find out more information.
Under the parent and carers section are check lists to help you understand expectations at each stage of your child's development.
Click on the image below to visit the parent 'talking point' area of the website to find out more information.
