Good communication skills are essential for learning, building friendships, and confidence. Some children may need extra help to develop their speech, language, or communication skills. This could include understanding instructions, using words and sentences, pronouncing sounds, or expressing themselves clearly.

✨ Signs a child may need support include:

• Difficulty following instructions ❓

• Limited vocabulary or short sentences 📖

• Struggling to pronounce certain sounds 🔤

• Difficulty joining in conversations 👥

• Frustration when trying to express themselves 😟

👩‍🏫 How we support in school

• Using visual supports and symbols 🖼️

• Breaking instructions into simple, clear steps ✅

• Giving children extra time to respond ⏳

• Encouraging turn-taking, listening, and conversation games 🎲

• Working with Speech and Language Therapists (SALT) where needed 🤝

🌐 The Balance System for Kent
In Kent, schools and families use the Balance System to understand a child’s communication needs and the best level of support. This system, created by Balance CIC, helps match the right type of intervention to each child.

There are four levels of support:

• Universal 🌍 – strategies used for all children in class (e.g., visuals, clear routines).

• Targeted 🎯 – extra small-group or one-to-one support for those who need it.

• Specialist 🧑‍⚕️ – support from Speech and Language Therapists or other professionals.

• Specialist Plus ➕ – intensive, tailored input for children with more complex needs.

By using the Balance System, we ensure that children get the right help, at the right time, in the right place.

🏡 How families can help at home

• Talk together often – describe what you’re doing, ask open questions 🏡

• Share books and stories daily 📚

• Sing songs and rhymes 🎵

• Give your child time to speak without rushing them ⏰

• Play games that build listening and turn-taking 🎲

📘 Useful resources

• Kent Speech and Language Therapy Service

• Balance System – Balance CIC

• I CAN – Supporting speech and language

• Kent SEND Information Hub

🤝 We’re here for you too
If you’re concerned about your child’s speech, language, or communication skills, please speak with their class teacher or our Inclusion Leader, Mrs Butcher. Together, and with the support of Kent’s Speech and Language Therapy Service, we can help your child develop the skills they need.