How to Advocate for Your Child's Speech Therapy Needs at School

Supporting your child’s speech therapy journey often extends beyond the clinic or home. Schools play a critical role in ensuring your child receives the resources and accommodations they need to thrive. However, navigating the educational system can sometimes feel overwhelming. This guide offers practical tips to help families collaborate effectively with teachers and secure the necessary support for their child in educational settings.

1. Understand Your Child’s Speech Therapy Needs

Before advocating for your child, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of their unique needs. Speak to your child’s speech therapist to obtain a detailed explanation of the therapy goals and how these can be supported in the classroom. This might include communication strategies, specific accommodations, or tools like visuals and AAC devices.

2. Familiarise Yourself with School Policies and Support Systems

In Australia, schools are required to provide reasonable adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education. Familiarise yourself with these standards, as well as your child’s school policies regarding learning support and inclusion. Many schools have a Student Support Group (SSG) or an Individual Education Plan (IEP) process in place to tailor learning strategies to a student’s needs.

3. Build Positive Relationships with Educators

A collaborative approach works best when advocating for your child. Arrange a meeting with your child’s teacher, the school’s learning support coordinator, or principal early in the school year. Use this opportunity to:

• Share insights about your child’s strengths and challenges.

• Explain how their speech therapy goals can be integrated into classroom routines.

• Emphasise your willingness to work as a team.

Maintaining open, respectful communication can create a partnership that benefits your child.

4. Request an Individual Education Plan (IEP)

If your child’s speech therapy needs significantly impact their learning or social interactions, an IEP may be helpful. This document outlines specific goals, accommodations, and the roles of various staff in supporting your child. Request regular reviews of the IEP to ensure it stays aligned with your child’s progress and changing needs.

5. Utilise External Support Services

Many Australian schools collaborate with external specialists, such as speech pathologists, through programs like the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). If your child has NDIS funding, discuss with their speech therapist how they can liaise with the school to ensure consistent strategies are used across all settings.

6. Advocate for Reasonable Adjustments

Reasonable adjustments might include:

• Allowing extra time to complete tasks.

• Using visuals to support verbal instructions.

• Providing access to quiet spaces for communication-heavy tasks.

• Clearly outline the adjustments that will benefit your child and ensure they are practical for the school to implement.

  
  

7. Educate Teachers and Peers About Speech Challenges

Raising awareness about your child’s speech needs can foster a more inclusive environment. Consider asking the school to organise professional development for staff or age-appropriate sessions for classmates to promote understanding and empathy.

8. Monitor and Celebrate Progress

Keep track of your child’s progress and celebrate their achievements, no matter how small. Share this progress with teachers and other school staff to reinforce the value of the support they’re providing.

9. Know Your Rights and When to Escalate

If you encounter barriers, it’s important to know your rights under the Disability Discrimination Act (1992) and the Disability Standards for Education (2005). Contact advocacy organisations, such as Speech Pathology Australia or the Australian Human Rights Commission, if you need guidance on escalating concerns.

10. Stay Involved and Engaged

Advocacy is an ongoing process. Stay involved in your child’s education by attending parent-teacher meetings, volunteering for school events, or simply checking in regularly with teachers. Your presence demonstrates your commitment and ensures your child’s needs remain a priority.

Advocating for your child’s speech therapy needs at school is about building strong partnerships and ensuring everyone involved is working towards the same goal: helping your child reach their full potential. With preparation, collaboration, and persistence, you can create a supportive educational environment that empowers your child to thrive.

Remember to be kind and share joy!

-            Allanah (speech therapist)