ABSTRACT
Speech language and communication skills are made up of different components which interact together:Attention and listening, Receptive language, Expressive language, and Pragmatic language. Difficulties with speech, language and communication may hinder or reduce opportunities to have conversations and interact with others, which may contribute to barriers to social relationships. Potential difficulties may be considered within the areas of social relationships, pro-social behaviours, externalising and internalising behaviours and self-esteem and self-belief. Research studies have noted reports from teachers and parents of both externalised and internalised behaviours within children and young people with Speech, language and communication needs (SLCN). Developing pro-social behaviours is important for school readiness and learning academic skills. In relation to longer-term outcomes, SLCN has been identified as a risk factor for negative outcomes in relation to education, employment and offending behaviour. Formal specialist assessments are provided by Speech and Language Therapists.
