Google Services
Search
Search
Translate
Translate
Interactive Bar
Communication & Interaction
Key Points
Children with needs in this area may struggle with:
- Understanding and using spoken language
- Social communication (e.g., turn-taking, understanding social cues)
- Expressing themselves clearly
- Conditions such as Speech & Language difficulties and Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC)
Some of the ways that we support this at The Flourish Federation:
- Small group or one-to-one Speech & Language interventions
- Visual aids, now and next boards, and social stories
- Opportunities for supported social interaction
- Close links with external Speech & Language Therapists (SaLT)
Children with Communication & Interaction needs may find it difficult to communicate effectively with others. This can impact their ability to understand spoken or written language, express themselves clearly, or engage in social interactions. Some children may struggle with processing language, while others may find it challenging to navigate the unspoken rules of conversation, such as turn-taking or recognising facial expressions and body language.
Difficulties in this area can range from mild speech and language delays to more complex communication needs associated with conditions such as:
- Speech and Language Disorders – where a child may have difficulty forming words, structuring sentences, or understanding instructions
- Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)– affecting the ability to acquire and use language
- Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) – where a child may struggle with social communication, sensory differences, and flexible thinking
- Selective Mutism – an anxiety-based difficulty where a child is unable to speak in certain situations despite being able to talk in others
Because communication is the foundation for learning and social development, ensuring the right support is in place is essential.
Some of the ways that we support this at The Flourish Federation:
- Speech & Language Support – We work closely with Speech & Language Therapists (SaLT) to provide targeted interventions for children who need additional help with language development, speech production, and understanding instructions.
- Visual Communication Tools – We use Widgit Online, visual timetables, now and next boards, social stories, and Makaton to support children who need additional cues to aid understanding and communication.
- Social Skills Development – Some children benefit from structured programmes to support social interaction and communication, such as Lego Therapy, Social Stories, and small-group social communication sessions.
- Adapted Teaching Methods – Teachers use clear, structured language and check for understanding before moving on. Some children benefit from pre-teaching vocabulary, breaking instructions into manageable steps, or using additional processing time.
- Alternative Communication Methods – Where needed, we support children with alternative ways to communicate, including:
- Visual symbols and communication boards for children who need additional non-verbal support
- Makaton signing, where appropriate, to reinforce spoken language
- Safe & Supportive Spaces – Some children with communication needs may feel overwhelmed in busy environments. We provide quiet areas such as Nurture Lunch (infants) & The Hub (Juniors) and ensure staff are trained to support self-regulation and sensory needs.
- Collaboration with External Specialists – We maintain strong links with Speech and Language Therapists, Educational Psychologists, and ASC outreach services, ensuring children receive the most appropriate support for their individual needs.
For further information and support, parents can visit The Pod – Kent Community Health NHS Trust which offers resources for speech and language development.
Click to access The Pod - Children's Therapies Service Website
