Clear answers. Practical strategies. Better communication—everyday.
Our Speech, Language & Communication Assessment helps families understand a child’s current communication profile and what will make the biggest difference at home, at school, and in the community. Assessments are available in‑clinic (Derrimut), at home or school across Melbourne’s west and north, and via telehealth across Australia—so support is accessible in the setting that suits your child best.
Who this is for
Consider an assessment if you, your child’s educator, or health professional have noticed:
- Speech sounds that are hard to understand (clarity/pronunciation).
- Language delays or differences—understanding instructions, using words/sentences, or telling stories.
- Social communication challenges—taking turns, staying on topic, or reading social cues.
- Stuttering/fluency concerns or voice differences impacting confidence and participation.
- Impact on learning or daily routines, including difficulty following classroom directions or expressing needs.
If these patterns feel familiar, a structured assessment can provide clarity and a practical plan forward.
What the assessment involves
We take a family‑centred, strengths‑based approach aligned with SLCN’s holistic developmental framework and collaborative way of working with homes and schools.
1) Intake & goal‑setting
Your clinician gathers developmental history, current concerns, and your priorities. Together we decide the best assessment setting (clinic, home/school, or telehealth).
2) Comprehensive communication profile
Depending on your child’s age and needs, we combine:
- Speech sound assessment (clarity, phonology, oral‑motor considerations).
- Receptive & expressive language assessment (understanding words/sentences, grammar, vocabulary, narrative).
- Pragmatic/social communication assessment (conversation, perspective‑taking, play and peer interaction).
- Fluency/voice screening and functional observations during play, routines, or classroom tasks.
Educator questionnaires and observations may be included to understand how communication looks across settings, consistent with SLCN’s collaborative model.
3) Functional view across SLCN’s eight developmental areas
We map how communication skills connect with play, daily living, motor, executive functioning, social cognition, social‑emotional development, and academic participation, ensuring recommendations are practical and meaningful in everyday life.
4) Feedback & written report
You’ll receive a plain‑language explanation of strengths and support needs, plus a tailored plan you can share with your child’s school, paediatrician, and other therapists.
What you’ll walk away with
- Clear understanding of your child’s speech, language, and social communication profile.
- Actionable strategies to use in everyday routines (home, school, community).
- A step‑by‑step therapy plan aligned to your goals and your child’s interests.
- A comprehensive report for teachers and health providers to ensure consistent supports.
Our approach
- Flexible delivery: in‑clinic, home/school in Melbourne’s west & north, or telehealth Australia‑wide.
- Collaborative & family‑centred: we work alongside parents and educators so skills generalise where they matter most.
- Holistic & evidence‑based: integrated with SLCN’s eight developmental areas and multidisciplinary services (speech pathology, psychology, OT, behaviour therapy).
After the assessment: next steps
We can help you implement recommendations through:
- Therapy blocks or ongoing sessions focused on speech clarity, language growth, social communication, or fluency goals.
- Parent Coaching—practical, coach‑style support to embed strategies into mealtimes, play, homework, and community routines.
- School liaison—classroom strategies, visuals, and communication supports that fit your child’s learning environment.
- Group options (e.g., social groups) to practise skills with peers, when appropriate.
Availability & bookings
Appointments are available now across settings. Book online or contact our team on 03 80 880 527 or info@slcn.com.au to discuss the best pathway for your child.
