Screening for children’s Speech, Language and Communication Needs

Avin Mirawdeli (Heriot-Watt University)

Reports such as The Bercow report (2008, 2018) and the Marmot Review (2010) suggest that children’s Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN) are a significant factor in educational attainment. Yet, we do not screen children for such difficulties, which means these children are missed and continue within the education system without intervention. Heightening the disparity of thought and action within this issue is that if children do not receive early intervention, then the likelihood of recovery and management of the SLCN is reduced, if not diminished altogether. This can have dire consequences for those with SLCNs. In this talk, I will present how I began researching this area, the findings so far and present them in light of current perspectives in the field. I will also discuss some of the current work and future plans for the development of an App that could enable screening for SLCNs.

In-person: PG304, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh.