At the heart of my approach is a simple belief: every child deserves to be heard and understood. For children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), communication can sometimes be a challenge—but with the right tools and strategies, every child can find their voice.

I work closely with each child to identify the methods that suit them best, helping them to express themselves, build confidence, and connect with others.

Communication can take many different forms, and the approach I use will always reflect each child’s individual strengths and needs. My strategies draw on the four main areas of SEND: Communication and Interaction, Cognition and Learning, Social, Emotional and Mental Health, and Physical/Sensory needs.

 

Types of Communication Methods

Visual Communication

Using images, symbols, photographs, or objects of reference to support understanding and expression.

• Objects of Reference - Real-life objects are used to represent specific events, activities, or choices (for example, a cup to indicate snack time).

Nonverbal Communication

Children may use facial expressions, body language, gestures or move you to share how they are feeling or what they need.

 

Written Communication

For some children, written words, print, or text can be an effective way of expressing themselves.

 

Sound and Spoken Word

Clear, simple, and direct spoken language—sometimes supported by songs, rhymes, or sounds—helps children to process and respond. Short, concrete sentences work best, avoiding abstract concepts or idioms.

 

Why These Methods Matter

These approaches give children different ways to communicate beyond just the spoken words, which is especially important for those with speech and language difficulties or neurodevelopmental conditions. By using different methods, we can ensure that every child has a voice and the opportunity to connect with others.

 

Parent FAQs

💬 What if my child doesn’t speak yet?

That’s absolutely okay. Speech is just one way to communicate. Many children share their needs and feelings through body language, gestures, facial expressions, or by using visual tools and communication aids. By supporting these methods, we give your child a voice right now—while also encouraging their speech and language development at their own pace.

 

💬 Will these methods replace speech?

No. Alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) is not about replacing speech—it’s about adding extra tools to help your child be understood. For some children, AAC acts as a bridge that supports the development of spoken language. For others, it remains a vital long-term tool that empowers them to express themselves. Either way, the goal is always to help your child communicate confidently and effectively.

 

💬 How do you decide which method is right for my child?

Every child is different, so we start by really getting to know them. Together we look at how they currently try to communicate, what motivates them, and what challenges they face. From there, we can trial different approaches—such as visual supports, objects of reference, or AAC systems—to see what works best. This process is flexible and child centred meaning we can adapt and change methods as your child grows and their needs evolve.

 

💬 My child understands more than they can say. How will you support that?

This is very common. Children often have a stronger understanding of language than they can express verbally. In these cases, visual aids, signs, or technology-based systems can help bridge the gap, giving your child a way to show what they know and reducing frustration. Supporting their expressive communication also helps build confidence and independence.

 

💬 Will using symbols, signs, or AAC make my child dependent on them?

Not at all. These tools can actually reduce frustration, encourage independence, and open up opportunities for communication. Many children naturally move away from them as their speech develops, while others continue to use them alongside speech, especially during times of stress and dysregulation. What’s important is that your child has the means to be understood, now and in the future.

 

💬 Will my child’s communication needs change over time?

Yes, communication is a journey. As children grow, their abilities, preferences, and needs often change. A method that works well now may be adjusted or replaced later, to ensure the support remains right for them.

 

💬 How can I support my child’s communication at home?

Consistency is key. I can share strategies and tools with you so you can use the same approaches at home. Simple things like using clear, short sentences, giving your child extra time to respond, and supporting spoken language with visuals or signs can make a big difference. The more consistent the approach across all environments and people, the more confident your child will feel.

 

✨ With the right support, every child can find a way to share their thoughts, feelings, and ideas—and be hear

Supporting Children with Sensory Food Differences

For some children, especially those with with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), mealtimes can feel overwhelming. Differences in how they process sensory information mean that the look, texture, smell, or taste of food may feel too intense—or, in some cases, not noticeable enough. This can lead to limited food choices, strong preferences, or even distress at mealtimes.

 

The good news is that with patience, understanding, and a stress-free, playful approach, children can build positive experiences around food—helping them feel safe, confident, and in control.

 

Understanding Sensory Food Issues

• Sensory Triggers: Children may be unsettled by the appearance of food (such as strong colours or mixed textures), by certain tastes, or by strong or unusual smells.

• Sensory Processing Differences: Some children experience hypersensitivity (finding sensations overwhelming) while others experience hyposensitivity (needing stronger sensations to notice them). Both can affect how food feels, tastes, or smells.

• Emotional Impact: Because taste and smell are closely linked to emotions, mealtimes can feel stressful or emotionally charged for children with sensory differences.

 

Signs Your Child May Have Sensory Food Needs

• Preferring only certain colours of food (often beige or pale foods).

• Feeling uncomfortable at the table—for example, struggling with mealtime noises or only using one specific cup.

• Rejecting foods that mix textures (such as lumpy sauces or crunchy and soft foods together).

• Avoiding foods that change texture as they are chewed.

 

Why Fun and Exploration Matter

 

When children are free to explore food in a playful, stress-free environment, they begin to build positive associations with mealtimes. Touching, smelling, or simply playing with food helps reduce fear and pressure, while also strengthening their sensory understanding.

 

Over time, this gentle approach can:

• Increase willingness to try new foods.

• Reduce mealtime anxiety and stress.

• Support independence and confidence.

• Help children discover their own preferences in a safe, supported way.

 

✨ With patience, creativity, and encouragement, mealtimes can shift from stressful moments to opportunities for learning, exploration, and joy