Paediatric Speech Pathology
Every child deserves the chance to communicate! Talking is at the heart of how we connect with others, and we’re passionate about providing individualised, engaging therapy that empowers kids to express themselves with confidence.
Using evidence-based speech pathology and animal-assisted interventions, our experienced team supports children in developing strong communication skills, helping them thrive in their own unique way.
What is Paediatric Speech Pathology?
Paediatric speech pathology focuses on empowering children to communicate with confidence—laying the foundation for lifelong learning, meaningful relationships, and personal growth.
At The Speech Express, our Certified Practising Speech Pathologists work within a clearly defined scope of practice, guided by Speech Pathology Australia’s standards. This means we provide evidence-based assessment and therapy tailored to each child’s developmental, communication, and learning needs.
Our team uses a range of trusted approaches and programs to support children of all ages with:
Speech (clarity and pronunciation)
We support children in improving their articulation and clarity by assessing their speech inventory and working out why their speech is unclear. There can be many reasons why a child’s overall speech intelligibility is poor and having the right assessment helps determine the best treatment.
Language development (understanding and using words)
We teach children how to use their words to express their thoughts and feelings, as well as how to understand others when they do the same.
Social communication and interaction
We help children develop social skills so they can build relationships more easily and interact meaningfully with others.
Early communication for late talkers and nonverbal children
Some children take longer to start talking—or may not use words at all just yet. At The Speech Express, we support early communication by helping children connect, express themselves, and build strong foundations for language.
Our speech pathologists use play-based, neurodiversity-affirming approaches to support:
- Understanding and using words
- Turn-taking, joint attention, and social interaction
- Expressive communication using gestures, visuals, key word sign, or AAC
- Family strategies to support communication at home
Every child communicates differently. We’re here to help them be understood and feel confident in how they express themselves.
Literacy and pre-literacy skills
Through engaging activities such as learning spelling rules, developing automatic recognition of letter-sound patterns, and using multisensory approaches to build strong sound-letter connections, we support children to become confident readers and writers. Our literacy intervention aims to build confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of reading.
We focus on phonics-based decoding—not guessing from pictures—so children develop real, transferable reading skills. Shared reading and structured support help make learning meaningful and fun. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress.
We understand that children with literacy difficulties are at increased risk of:
- Falling behind academically
- Experiencing low self-esteem and school-related anxiety
- Avoiding reading and writing tasks altogether
- Long-term challenges with learning and communication.
Fluency (e.g., stuttering)
Does your child exhibit signs of stuttering? This can be when they bump or get stuck on words e.g “I, I, I, I want to pat the dog!” We can help improve the flow, rhythm, and speed of their speech with various techniques and programs.
Different approaches are used for different ages. The Lidcombe Program is particularly well researched for preschool aged children who have a stuuter.
Voice and vocal health
A child’s voice is a powerful tool—not just for communication, but for expressing who they are. At The Speech Express, we support children with voice difficulties to speak comfortably, confidently, and without strain.
Using evidence-based approaches, we help children learn healthy voice habits, reduce strain on their vocal cords, and build awareness of how to use their voices safely. Therapy may involve fun, playful activities like voice games, breathing strategies, and gentle vocal warm-ups tailored to each child’s needs.
We also work closely with Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists when needed to ensure comprehensive care.
Our goal is to protect and strengthen your child’s voice—so they can continue to use it with joy, clarity, and confidence.
Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
We can guide expression through alternate means, ranging from sign language and gestures to drawings and devices.
Feeding
Mealtimes should be safe, enjoyable, and nourishing—but for some children, eating can be stressful or even scary. At The Speech Express, our speech pathologists support children who experience feeding and swallowing challenges.
We can help with:
- Fussy or limited eating
- Delays in transitioning to solids
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing safely
- Sensory sensitivities to food textures, smells, or temperatures
- Mealtime anxiety or stress
Using gentle, evidence-based approaches, we support children to build positive relationships with food, while helping families feel confident and supported at mealtimes.
We work closely with families, educators, and other professionals to ensure therapy is functional, engaging, and aligned with your child’s goals.
When to Consider Paediatric Speech Pathology Input
If your child exhibits any of the following signs, they may benefit from our services:
- Late to start talking or have a limited vocabulary for their age
- Difficulty pronouncing words clearly or being understood by others
- Struggling with sounds or grammar, affecting their ability to form sentences
- Frustration when trying to communicate, especially if they have difficulty expressing their thoughts
- Challenges with understanding language, including following directions or processing verbal information
- Difficulty making friends or understanding social cues, such as turn-taking, body language, or maintaining a conversation
- Struggling with reading, writing, or spelling, including difficulty decoding words and writing legibly
- Avoidance or hesitation in social settings, such as school or group activities
- Signs of developmental delays, including delays in speech, language, motor skills, or cognitive development
- Difficulty with daily routines or transitions, including adapting to new environments or changes in activities
- Challenges related to medical or developmental conditions, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Down syndrome.
Speech pathology intervention can be a crucial part of helping children with developmental delays reach their full potential. Our therapy services are tailored to meet each child’s unique needs, helping them gain the skills necessary for effective communication, independence, and social interaction.
If you’re concerned about any of these signs, we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.
Our Process
If you think paediatric speech therapy could support your child’s communication skills, get in touch! Our certified practicing speech pathologists are here to guide your child on their journey towards more confident communication.
Step 1: Contact Us
Contact us via our enquiry form. When an appointment is available, we’ll call to discuss your child’s needs and journey so far.
Step 2: Get An Assessment
Attend an introductory appointment where your child will meet their speech pathologist. This assessment allows us to understand their unique strengths and challenges.
Step 3: Create A Therapy Plan
During the appointment, we’ll create a therapy plan for your child, including further assessment, a block of intervention, or our Therapy Express service with a therapy assistant.
Meet Our Pack
Say hello to our certified practicing speech pathologists, trained therapy assistants, amazing administrators and adorable furry friends!
FAQs
What ages of children do you work with?
We welcome children of all ages, from toddlers to older kids. Early intervention is often the most effective.
What does a typical session look like?
Sessions are tailored to the child and often include games, play-based activities, and — when helpful — animal-assisted therapy to keep children engaged.
How long does therapy take?
The duration varies by child and by the nature of the problem. Some progress quickly; others may need more extensive support. We regularly update parents on progress.
How does animal-assisted therapy help?
Our trained therapy dogs create a calm, friendly environment, helping children feel relaxed and open to learning. We also have guinea pigs, fish, and sometimes even a therapy cat. Depending on the child’s suitability, they may have the opportunity to have an animal incorporated into their session. You can learn more about our animal-assisted interventions here.
How do I get started?
Reach out to us to book an assessment, and we’ll create a plan to support your child’s communication journey.
