What Are Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN)?

Some children and young people find it difficult to listen, understand and communicate with others and may need support to develop the surprising number of skills involved.

SLCN is the umbrella term most commonly used to describe these difficulties. It stands for Speech, Language and Communication Needs.

Children with SLCN may have difficulty with only one speech, language or communication skill, or with several. Children may have difficulties with listening and understanding or with talking or both. Each child also has a unique combination of strengths. This means that every child with SLCN is different.

Is it common?

Speech, Language and Communication Needs, or SLCN, is quite common. It is estimated that around 10% of children starting school have SLCN – that’s approximately 2-3 in every classroom.