Speech Language Pathology 

Important Information:

Overview 

Broadly speaking, S-LPs in schools work with students who present with communication challenges. This may include anyone experiencing difficulties with speech sounds, word formation (phonology), understanding and use of language (e.g. concepts, questions, language context), vocabulary, sentence structure, voice quality, resonance, social communication/pragmatics, and fluency. 

Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) describes Speech and Language pathologists’ role in schools as unique and one that complements the roles of other educational professionals and enhance students’ communication abilities. As such, the goals of providing speech-language services are as follows: 

  • Working with students in individual, small group, and whole-class settings, as well as though consultation and collaboration with parents, teachers, educational assistants, and others, to develop oral and written communication skills  
  • S-LPs are the only professionals qualified to assess and treat speech-sound, fluency, resonance, and voice disorders 
  • Assessing and providing therapy for children who present with delays in their expressive and/or receptive language development 
  • Difficulties with expressive and/or receptive language can result in challenging behaviours, difficulties with literacy development, barriers to engaging in the learning process, and/or demonstrating knowledge through oral or written language 
  • Aiding in the development of social communication skills both in and out of the classroom 
  • Providing consultation and training in the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to enhance communication development, opportunities, and participation across settings 
  • Consulting with the school-based team to ensure maximal integration of children with speech and/or language disorders into the learning environment 

Referral process: 

Any student enrolled in SD71 may be referred throughout the school year for speech-language services if there is a concern regarding communication. A referral may be initiated by a parent/guardian, learning support teacher (LST), classroom teacher, principal, counsellor, physician, or other outside agency.  

Strategies and Resources:

screenshot of milestones for language development: blond hair female reading book with dark haired child on lap

Vancouver Coastal Health – Speech & Language Development Milestones (Birth to 5 years)

screenshot of speech and language development: male interacting with young male doing some sign languageHealth Link BC – Speech and Lanuage Development: Red Flags

Articulation

Mouth open with a speech bubble with the letters S R K in the bubble

Language

2 boys facing each other talking with a speech bubble over on of their heads

Fluency

boy with head and shoulders facing forward, mouth open and 2 speech bubbles with AA in both

 AAC

icon four square with hands, book, schedule and table