Areas of Practice
Speech Sounds
Phonological processes or speech sound errors are patterns of sound errors that children commonly use as they are learning to talk. These patterns reflect how a child simplifies adult speech sounds to make words easier to say while their speech system is still developing.
Neurodiversity-affirming Approach to Social Communication
A neurodiversity-affirming practice is an approach that values and respects neurological differences as natural variations in people, rather than as problems to be “fixed” or made to appear neurotypical. This perspective honours each individual’s unique strengths, communication styles, sensory needs and preferences, and supports them in ways that are tailored to what they actually need and want. Neurodiversity-affirming practice emphasises respect, autonomy and inclusion, rejects pathologising language or goals, and focuses on creating environments and supports that enable individuals to thrive as their authentic selves.
Early Language
Early language refers to the foundational communication skills that develop in the first years of life and support later speech, language, and learning. It includes understanding and using sounds, gestures, words, and simple sentences to communicate. Early language also involves skills such as listening, attention, imitation, turn-taking, and responding to others. These early abilities form the building blocks for interaction, play, literacy, and communication as children grow.
Literacy
Literacy in children is the ability to read, write, and understand written language for learning, communication, and everyday activities. It develops from key foundational skills, including oral language (understanding and using spoken language), phonological awareness (recognising and working with sounds in words), and print knowledge (understanding letters, sounds, and how print works). Together, these skills support children to decode text, understand meaning, and use written language with confidence.
Orofacial Myology
Orofacial myology refers to the function and coordination of the muscles of the face, mouth, and jaw that support breathing, chewing, swallowing, and speech. It includes tongue posture and movement, lip closure, jaw stability, and nasal breathing.
Receptive and Expressive Language
Receptive language refers to the ability to understand and interpret spoken or written language, including vocabulary, grammar, instructions, and more subtle meanings such as humour or figurative language. Expressive language is the ability to share thoughts, ideas, needs, and feelings through spoken or written words, gestures, or other forms of communication. Together, these skills allow individuals to understand others and clearly express themselves in everyday interactions.
Alternative and Augmentative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes tools, strategies, and systems that support spoken language for individuals who have difficulty communicating verbally. AAC may involve gestures, signs, pictures, communication boards, or applications/programs, helping people express their needs, thoughts, and ideas effectively.
