Speech Link Parent Portal

About Speech and Language Therapy Resources

Speech and language therapy (SLT/SALT) helps children and young people who have difficulties with communication, speech sounds, language comprehension, or social interaction. Alongside one-to-one therapy sessions, resources such as parent portals and activity guides can play an important role in supporting your child's communication development at home.

Parent-focused resources can complement professional therapy by providing practical activities and strategies you can use between sessions. They can also be helpful while waiting for an assessment or therapy to begin.

Supporting Your Child's Communication at Home

• Follow your child's lead during play and comment on what they are doing
• Give your child time to process and respond before repeating or rephrasing
• Use simple, clear language and short sentences
• Read together regularly and talk about the pictures and story
• Reduce background noise during conversations to help your child focus

Helpful Resources

• What is Speech and Language Therapy? — our full guide for parents
• Speech Therapy Costs in the UK — what to expect to pay
• How to Apply for an EHCP in Kent — if your child needs funded support
• All Speech and Language Therapists in Kent

Frequently Asked Questions

Can online resources replace speech and language therapy?

Online resources and parent portals are a valuable complement to professional therapy, but they are not a replacement for a qualified speech and language therapist's assessment and tailored intervention. If you have concerns about your child's communication, it is important to seek a professional assessment.

When should I be concerned about my child's speech and language development?

Every child develops at their own pace, but if your child is not meeting expected communication milestones, or if you have concerns about how they understand or use language, it is worth seeking advice from a speech and language therapist. Your health visitor or GP can also advise on next steps.

Can speech and language therapy be included in an EHCP?

Yes. If your child has an Education, Health and Care Plan, speech and language therapy can be named as a provision in the plan. This means the local authority may fund the therapy. See our EHCP application guide for more information.