In the recent study, "Supporting the mental health of children with speech, language and communication needs: The views and experiences of parents," researchers explored the barriers and facilitators parents face when seeking mental health support for their children with Speech, Language, and Communication Needs (SLCN). The findings highlight critical areas where practitioners can improve their approaches to create better outcomes for children.
Key Findings from the Research
The study, which included a survey of 74 parents and interviews with 9 parents of children with Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), identified three broad factors affecting parents' experiences: relational aspects of care, organizational aspects of care, and professionals' knowledge.
Relational Aspects of Care
- Parents emphasized the importance of feeling listened to and having their concerns taken seriously.
- Children should be helped to feel safe and build confidence and self-esteem.
Organizational Aspects of Care
- Timely referrals and support for obtaining an Education Health Care Plan (EHCP) were crucial.
- Long waiting times and repeated transfers between services were common frustrations.
Professionals' Knowledge
- Parents wanted professionals to be well-versed in their child's needs and to have access to specialized knowledge when necessary.
- Concerns were raised about the lack of training in detecting mental health problems in children with SLCN.
Implications for Practitioners
Practitioners can enhance their support for children with SLCN by implementing the following recommendations based on the study's findings:
1. Improve Accessibility of Mental Health Services
Parents reported that their children were often rejected from Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) due to their language problems. Practitioners should consider how language issues might mask the extent of mental health problems and ensure families are signposted to appropriate support if CAMHS is not an option.
2. Specialist Training for Mental Health Professionals
Mental health professionals should receive training in SLCN and work closely with Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) to identify and address unrecognized language needs. This collaboration can make interventions more accessible and effective.
3. Adapt Delivery of Mental Health Support
Engaging children in 'face-to-face' conversations about emotional topics can be challenging for those with language needs. Integrating visual aids, activities, and technology can help build rapport and reduce the language demand, making interventions more effective.
4. Support Social Relationships
Helping children with SLCN develop and sustain meaningful friendships is crucial. Practitioners should consider how targeted support might impact children's ability to make and retain friends and strive to support these youngsters within an inclusive framework.
Future Research Directions
The study highlights the need for further research on how to detect and support mental health problems in children with SLCN. Understanding the perspectives of children and young people themselves, as well as those of professionals, can provide deeper insights into improving care.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Supporting the mental health of children with speech, language and communication needs: The views and experiences of parents
