A major confidence barrier for young children is problems with speech, along with reading and writing. Speech pathology can help rectify issues such as a speech disorders which refers to issues producing actual sounds. It can also assist with language disorders which relates to issues understanding or putting words together to communicate effectively.

Aimee Capple has been practicing speech pathology since 2002, after completing a degree in English linguistics, and has been running her own speech pathology business since 2012. Aimee said that there is a mix between genetic and learned speech problems. “It’s about a 50 per cent split. Some children have a genetic predisposition which can also be seen in parents or siblings, whereas others display learnt behaviours that are often related to socioeconomic environments,” she said.

Speech pathology is all about resolving issues and Aimee said while the focus is on changing behaviours and habits, it also takes a lot of practice. “Obviously correcting things such as stutters or lisps can boost a child’s confidence, but pathology can also help increase reading and writing ability,” she said.

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While it is important for children to be tested or screened early, Aimee said it is never too late to seek corrective assistance. “The earlier a problem is addressed the better, however many people have different levels of issues and different motives for correction. We often see people seeking advice during significant life stages such as going into high school or even finishing high school, where they want to fix their speech issue and boost their confidence,” she said.

When screening for issues Aimee said that she is not just looking for speech impediments. “It’s also important to look at a child’s interactions with others, their social behaviour, pragmatics and also comprehension skills”.

While some issues only become apparent once they have manifested, Aimee said that others can be prevented. “Prevention of genetic issues is more likely as you know that a certain child could be at risk of speech problems, therefore you can get in early to stimulate language and correct behaviours”.

Aimee said that if any parents or children themselves are worried about a possible issue, the best advice is to at least get an assessment to put their minds at ease and to resolve any possible speech and learning problems.