An uptick in speech and language challenges among children is being linked to poverty, the Covid pandemic, and increased screen time, according to a warning issued by Jane Harris, the Chief Executive of Speech and Language UK.
Harris called attention to the concerning rise in speech and language issues affecting a significant number of children, with one in five struggling in some capacity. These challenges, including neurodivergence or disabilities, are hindering their communication abilities and overall development.
The impact of poverty levels and the pandemic, compounded by the substitution of real-world experiences with screen time, has left children deprived of crucial social interactions and learning opportunities. This shift has led to a growing number of youngsters facing difficulties in verbal expression and understanding, ultimately affecting their academic performance, social skills, and emotional well-being.
Harris emphasized that speech issues are not confined to early childhood but also affect teenagers, impacting their relationships and mental health. She stressed the need for more support from speech and language specialists, along with enhanced training for teachers to address the crisis effectively.
Proposed solutions include additional training for teachers focused on supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and the establishment of specialized hubs in schools staffed with trained professionals. These initiatives are hoped to be included in the upcoming SEND white paper by the government in the near future.
Education Minister Bridget Phillipson is spearheading efforts to reform the struggling SEND system, with initiatives such as the Best Start Family Hubs being rolled out to provide essential support to families. The government is committed to revamping the SEND system to ensure better outcomes for all children and rebuild parental confidence.
As part of ongoing efforts, the government is engaging with families, experts, and educators to address the challenges faced by SEND children. Speech and language support is emerging as a key priority in these discussions, with plans to incorporate it prominently in the forthcoming SEND white paper.
A Department for Education spokesperson highlighted the government’s commitment to overhauling the SEND system to deliver improved outcomes and restore faith in the education system.