Families needed for toddler speech and language observations

Colleagues with children born between February 2023 and September 2023 are invited to help train the speech and language therapists of the future.

Speech and Language Therapy students at the University must observe a toddler in a home setting as part of their studies. Each year, around 60 local families with a toddler participate in the programme.

This helps students gain a better understanding of child development, and gives them the chance to practise talking with parents. It is excellent preparation for later in their training, when the students will meet children in clinical situations.

Families that take part also benefit. Previous participants reported that they really valued having the students come and visit, and enjoyed supporting them with their learning.

The students all have an enhanced DBS and occupational health check ahead of meeting families,

Colleagues that wish to volunteer should:

• Have a child born between February 2023 and September 2023.
• Live in an area accessible by public transport for students.
• Be willing to invite a student into their home for 6-8 visits over the course of roughly a year.
• Have availability for these student visits to be at some point during the week (Mon – Fri; 9am – 5pm).