
Speech and language challenges and the relationship with mental health and well-being
Our “going-further” module Speech and language challenges and the relationship with mental health and well-being provides an overview of how speech and language challenges can often overlap with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs and lead to difficulties with learning in the classroom.
Intended audience
Practitioners who work with primary school aged children. This could include mental health practitioners, teachers, teaching assistants, SENCos, speech and language therapy assistants and other staff working in health or education.
Course structure
This module is part of our ‘going further’ series of modules: Speech and language challenges in the classroom. All of the modules in this series can be completed as stand-alone modules based on your own CPD needs.
Time commitments
The module will take approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete. You can complete the module at your own pace and in your own time.
Pre-requisite Knowledge
This module is part of our 'going further' series. It is assumed that professionals have either completed the Introduction to speech, language and communication course on the Speech and Language UK Learning Centre, or have equivalent knowledge and skills gained through other formal or informal learning, and/or relevant experience working with children.
Who is the course for?
Practitioners who work with primary school aged children. This could include mental health practitioners, teachers, teaching assistants, SENCos, speech and language therapy assistants and other staff working in health or education.
What level is it?
This module is part of our a “going further” series. It is assumed that professionals have either completed the Introduction to speech, language and communication course on the Speech and Language UK Learning Centre, or have equivalent knowledge and skills gained through other formal or informal learning, and/or relevant experience working with children.
What will I learn?
By completing this module you will:
- understand the links between speech and language challenges and social, emotional and mental health needs, including relevant research
- recognise some of the difficulties that you may see in children with speech and language challenges and social, emotional and mental health needs
- understand what selective mutism is, and recognise possible signs.
- know some key strategies to support children with speech and language challenges and social, emotional and mental health needs.
How long will it take?
The module will take approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete. You can complete the module at your own pace and in your own time.
How will it help me at work?
In this module you will learn about the links between social, emotional and mental health needs and speech and language challenges, and how to spot indicators of speech and language challenges. You'll also learn some practical ideas for how to support the well-being children who have speech and language challenges, including neurodivergent children and children with selective mutism.
Can I ask another question?
Yes of course, please reach out to info@speechandlanguage.org.uk.

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Contact Us
Speech and Language UK
Unit A The Cube Building
17-21 Wenlock Road
London
N1 7GT
Unit A The Cube Building
17-21 Wenlock Road
London
N1 7GT
General enquiries
020 7843 2510
info@speechandlanguage.org.uk
Media enquiries
media@speechandlanguage.org.uk
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Speech and Language UK is the operating name of I CAN Charity, a registered charity in England and Wales (210031) and Scotland (SC039947), which is a company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (00099629). Registered address: Unit A The Cube Building 17-21 Wenlock Road London N1 7GT

With thanks to our late patron the late Queen Elizabeth II