An alarming increase in speech and language issues among children has been attributed to factors such as poverty, the Covid pandemic, and excessive screen time, according to a warning issued by Jane Harris, the Chief Executive of Speech and Language UK.
Harris highlighted that the current system is failing a significant number of children, with one in five children experiencing difficulties with speech and language, marking a record high. Of these children, nearly half are facing speech challenges related to special educational needs and disabilities, including neurodivergence and disabilities.
In an interview with The Mirror, Harris emphasized the critical impact of these issues on children’s ability to communicate and comprehend, stressing that without proper support, they struggle academically, socially, and emotionally. She raised concerns about children missing out on essential developmental experiences due to poverty levels and the isolation exacerbated by the pandemic.
While acknowledging that increased screen time is not the sole cause of these problems, Harris pointed out that the substitution of real-world interactions with digital devices contributes to the issue. She emphasized the importance of providing children with diverse experiences for their holistic development and called for more support for parents facing challenges in nurturing their children’s language skills.
Harris noted that speech issues are not limited to early childhood but also affect teenagers, impacting their social interactions and mental well-being. She advocated for enhanced training for teachers to address the crisis effectively, suggesting increased access to speech and language specialists and specialized support hubs in schools.
The government is expected to address these concerns in the upcoming SEND white paper, with Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson planning significant reforms to the system. Schools Standards Minister Georgia Gould highlighted ongoing initiatives, including the implementation of Best Start Family Hubs, aimed at supporting families and improving outcomes for children.
Gould attributed the rise in issues among children to the dismantling of essential family support services, such as Sure Start centers, under previous administrations. She underscored the importance of speech and language support in education reform efforts and emphasized the government’s commitment to building a reformed system that prioritizes children’s needs and rebuilds parental confidence.
As efforts continue to revamp the SEND system, policymakers are engaging with stakeholders to identify key areas for improvement, with speech and language support emerging as a top priority. The Department for Education reaffirmed its commitment to listening to parents and ensuring a reformed system that delivers better outcomes for every child.