Understanding the Range of Difficulties
The difficulties experienced by pupils in this area are wide-ranging and complex. Some children experience problems with speech, language or communication, or any combination of the three. Their difficulties may be mild or severe and can present differently depending on context and environment.
Communication and interaction difficulties may arise from specific conditions such as Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), speech sound disorders, or selective mutism. They may also be a feature of autism, or occur alongside other needs such as hearing impairment, learning difficulties, or social, emotional and mental health needs.
It is important to recognise that communication difficulties frequently co-occur with other areas of need, and addressing communication should be a priority in any support plan.
Common Speech, Language and Communication Difficulties
Pupils with SLCN may experience some or all of the following:
- Difficulty understanding spoken language, particularly when sentences are long or complex
- Limited vocabulary or struggle to retrieve the right words when speaking
- Problems with grammar, such as using incorrect verb tenses or word order
- Difficulty following multi-step instructions or remembering what has been said
- Trouble expressing their thoughts and ideas in words, even when they understand concepts
- Speech that is unclear or hard for others to understand
- Difficulty with the social use of language (pragmatics), such as turn-taking in conversation or staying on topic
- Literal interpretation of language, which can lead to confusion with idioms or metaphors
- Frustration, anxiety or behavioural difficulties arising from communication challenges
- Avoidance of speaking in certain situations, particularly in group settings
Communication Differences in Autism
Autistic pupils may experience communication and interaction differences that have distinct characteristics. These may include:
- Difficulty understanding tone of voice, facial expressions and body language
- Highly literal understanding of language, with difficulty interpreting sarcasm, humour or implied meaning
- Difficulty expressing emotions or recognising the emotions of others
- Challenges with initiating or maintaining conversations, or difficulty understanding conversational rules
- A preference for discussing topics of special interest in depth, sometimes with limited awareness of listener engagement
- Differences in eye contact, which may be experienced as uncomfortable or distracting
- Difficulty predicting what others are thinking or feeling, which can affect social relationships
- Strong preference for routine and predictability in communication contexts
It is important to understand that these are differences in communication style, not deficits. Autistic pupils benefit from clear, direct communication and understanding environments that respect their neurological differences.