Paediatric Speech Pathology - Wodonga falls under the Community Health Team.
Find out more about our Speech Pathology at AWH.
How do I refer to Speech Pathology?
- Anyone can refer to Speech Pathology by calling our intake office. Victorian residents can contact 02 6051 7400 - NSW residents can contact 02 6058 1800.
- Children can be referred if they have not yet started primary school
- Children can be referred if they are not receiving private Speech Pathology services or other services such as Early Intervention.
What do Speech Pathologists do?
- Study
- Assess
- Diagnose
- Give advice
- Find the right tools
- Provide therapy
For further information from Speech Pathology Australia: www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Fact_Sheets/SPAweb/Resources_for_the_Public/Fact_Sheets/Fact_Sheets.aspx
What can Speech Pathologists help with?
- Unclear speech sounds (like saying ‘tat’ instead of ‘cat’)
- Difficulty understanding language and following directions
- Difficulty putting sentences together
- Limited vocabulary
- Problems with voice
- Stuttering
- Fussy eating and swallowing problems
- Difficulty with social skills
- Difficulty with pre-literacy skills such as sound/letter knowledge and rhyming
What causes communication and swallowing difficulties? - Children can have difficulty with communication or swallowing/eating for a range of reasons, including:
- Neuro-developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy
- Medical conditions such as cleft palate or vocal nodules
- Family history of communication problems
- History of ear infections, tonsillitis or other ear, nose and throat related issues
- Unknown reasons
When should I refer, and when should I wait?
- Often children do not simply ‘grow out’ of communication or swallowing problems, in some cases, things can worsen over time
- If you are unsure if your child needs to see a Speech Pathologist, talk to your Maternal and Child Health Nurse, GP, or call 6051 7400 to speak with a Speech Pathologist.
- As a parent/care-giver, you are a professional when it comes to your child, if you feel your child is having difficulty, it is worth contacting us to discuss your concerns or make a referral.
Speech Pathology Australia, www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au