How to Help Non-Speaking Children in the Early Years

This book includes key theory, a wealth of real-life examples and practical steps for developing communication. Centred around joyful connection, it is a valuable read for all early years practitioners, speech and language therapists, SENCOs and key people looking to support positive communication development with the children in their care.

Bryony Rust, aka SaLT by the Sea, is a speech and language therapist sharing her own experiences of what works with young children, learned through years of providing therapy, training practitioners and collaborating with caregivers. Bryony is also a keynote speaker and clinical supervisor, helping others navigate the surprise delights and challenges of helping young children learn to talk. Working in close partnership with families, her focus is on valuing each child's unique contribution, fostering personal agency and a sense of belonging. To find out more, visit saltbythesea.com

CHAPTER 1. What this guide is and how it can help you. What we're aiming for (Help them learn it's worth the effort) Stop doing, start noticing (this is the hardest part) What to expect from this book CHAPTER 2. Expand your definition of communication. Speech, language and communication Talking isn't everything Always respond Understand why we bother Look out for opportunities Understand what's going on behind the scenes CHAPTER 3. Build relationships. Include everyone from the beginning Aim for a flat hierarchy Practise active listening Avoid fix-it mode Stay out of judgement Regulate to communicate Realise our shared humanity 'Celebrate with me' CHAPTER 4. Start from strength. Tell a story of hope Describe what the child can do Shift your language from disorder to difference Consider needs, not problems Trust in capacity CHAPTER 5. Let the child lead. Tune in to the child's point of interest Give it space Look for the invitations Directing vs. Responding Give attention to get attention Solutions for when it's hard: Allow it to look like 'nothing' Regulate to communicate Allow the play to look unexpected Avoid the toy trap CHAPTER 6. Choose your focus. Decide what's important A note on mindfulness Understand where the child's at Write goals for the adults, not the child Write SCRUFFY goals CHAPTER 7. A strategies list Allow yourself to do less Embrace the awkward silence Reflect the child Pay attention to the details Play with words Use big gestures Make your phrases sing Use sound effects Give, don't quiz Make it easy CHAPTER 8. Keep going. Imagine something different We're in the business of relationships The simple version Share with others Choose one thing Stick with it Embrace everything It's all in the noticing Useful links Bibliography Index