For immediate release
30 October 2023
Did you know that 1 in 5 Australian children are developmentally behind in their language skills before they even start school?
Unfortunately, children who start school behind in their language development, too often stay behind.
Australian speech pathologists will once again share their unique and specialist skills in helping children’s language and literacy development as part of Speech Pathology Australia’s Speechie Library Talks campaign.
More than 140 free Speechie Library Talks will be held at a public library across the country in November.
The Speechie Library Talks present parents and carers with a unique opportunity to learn more about how they can help develop their child’s language and literacy and help to set them up for success.
The Speechie Library Talks are a series of one-hour, informative sessions. Topics covered in the speech pathologist’s presentation include:
• choosing the best books for your child
• ways parents and carers can help to build language and literacy
• encouraging interactions
• how to support multi-lingual children through book reading
• what to do if your child is having difficulties with reading
• and more…
The presentations also include an informative book reading of one of the Association’s Book of the Year winning books.
Why does the national peak body for speech pathologists in Australia conduct an annual book of the year award and Speechie Library Talks? Because speech pathologists understand the importance of literacy – the clear link that exists between language, speech and reading. Strong oral language skills (including speaking and listening skills) underpin the ability to read.
The Speechie Library Talks allow parents and carers to team up with speech pathologists and library staff to talk about literacy and developing that important love of reading.
For more information and to find a session near you, please visit the Speech Pathology Australia website or contact your local library.
Sources:
1 & 2 National Early Language and Literacy Coalition (2021) Proposed National Early Language and Literacy Strategy. www.earlylanguageandliteracy.com.au
Media contact | Communications and Marketing Manager, Rebecca Faltyn, [email protected], 0439 385 769.
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Media contact | Rebecca Faltyn, Communications and Marketing Manager at Speech Pathology Australia on (03) 8622 0411 or 0439 385 769
About Speech Pathology Australia
Speech Pathology Australia is the national peak body representing more than 14,000 speech pathologists. The Association supports and regulates the ethical, clinical, and professional standards of its members, as well as lobbying and advocating for access to services that benefit people with communication and swallowing difficulties.