Speech & Language Delay
Speech pathology for children who are taking longer to find their words — early, playful intervention that builds communication confidence at home and out in the world.
Every parent waits for those first words. When they come late, come unclear, or don't seem to grow into sentences, it can be worrying — and isolating. Speech and language delay is one of the most common reasons families seek therapy, and one of the most responsive to early support.
At Square One Therapy Hub, our speech pathologists work with late talkers, children with unclear speech, and kids who understand more than they can express. We use play, routines and what your child loves to build communication skills that last.
When to consider speech therapy
- Few or no words by 18 months to 2 years
- Speech that is hard to understand by age 3
- Understanding more than they can say
- Frustration or behaviour when trying to communicate
- Difficulty following instructions compared to same-age peers
- Trouble joining in play or social situations due to communication
- Stuttering or repeating sounds/words that is getting worse
How we help
- Comprehensive speech and language assessment
- Individualised therapy plan built around your child's interests
- Parent coaching for everyday communication strategies
- Play-based sessions that feel natural, not clinical
- Home practice programmes that fit your routine
- School liaison and readiness support where needed
- Coordination with OT for children with overlapping needs
What speech and language delay looks like
Delay can show up in different ways. Some children say very few words by age two. Some have plenty of words but are hard to understand. Some understand everything said to them but don't join in with talking. Some have the words but struggle to use them socially — greeting, asking, telling stories.
Our speech pathologists assess where your child is across understanding, talking, speech clarity and social use of language — then build a plan from there.
How speech therapy helps
We don't just practise words in a clinic. We look at how your child communicates throughout their day — at home, at preschool, at the park — and build strategies that fit your family's routines. That might mean parent coaching during everyday activities, structured play sessions targeting specific sounds, or visual supports that help your child express themselves while their speech catches up.
For children starting school soon, we also liaise with teachers and prepare transition reports so the classroom is set up to support them from day one.
Working with OT when needs overlap
Speech delay rarely exists in isolation. Many children also benefit from OT support for sensory regulation, attention, or play skills. Because our OTs and speech pathologists work in the same clinic, we coordinate goals and share progress — so your child gets consistent support, not separate silos.
How our team supports this
Speech Therapy
Enhance communication and language skills through proven, evidence-based therapy techniques designed for lasting improvement.
Explore serviceOccupational Therapy
Build independence and confidence in daily living skills with personalised strategies tailored to your individual goals and needs.
Explore serviceSchool Readiness Assessments
A multidisciplinary look at your child's academic, motor, social and self-care skills before they start Kindergarten — using the Bracken (BSRA-4) and PDMS-3.
Explore serviceCommon questions from families
Does my child need a referral to see a speech pathologist?
No. You can book directly. A GP referral under Medicare CDM (5 sessions per year) or an NDIS plan are common funding pathways, but neither is required to get started.
How early can speech therapy start?
We work with children from around 12 months, and sometimes earlier if there are significant risk factors. The earlier we start, the more we can build on your child's natural language learning window.
Will my child grow out of it without therapy?
Some children do catch up naturally, but many don't — and waiting can make later intervention harder and slower. An assessment gives you clarity on whether your child's profile is likely to resolve with time or needs support.
Can my child see speech and OT together?
Absolutely. Many of our families do both. We coordinate goals, share observations and can often schedule sessions back-to-back for convenience.
Is speech therapy covered by NDIS?
Yes — speech pathology falls under Capacity Building: Improved Daily Living in most NDIS plans. We also accept Medicare CDM, private health rebates and private pay.
Ready to Start Your Therapy Journey?
Speak directly with our director — no obligation, just a friendly chat about how we can help.