This is the definitive text on understanding and supporting children’s speech, language and communication needs (SLCN). Written by experts, it presents evidence-based approaches in a highly accessible format. Wide-ranging in scope, the book:

• Covers best practice for many groups of children, including those with speech sound disorders, Developmental Language Disorder (DLD) and neurodevelopmental differences
• Discusses specialist populations, including acquired brain injury and cleft lip and palate, as well as childhood onset eating, drinking and swallowing difficulties
• Features chapters on inclusive communication environments, Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC), communication partners, the whole systems approach and evidencing impact, exploring cross-cutting themes.

Case studies are included throughout to bring learning to life, and recommended online sources of further information are included. Comprehensive, authoritative and up to date, this book will prove indispensable for students and practitioners in speech and language therapy.

Susan McCool is a speech and language therapist whose career has combined clinical practice, university education, supervision and mentoring, consulting and advising, research and writing. Susan has extensive experience supporting children who have complex profiles, taking account of relational and contextual considerations. Her teaching and writing focus on communication support in contexts involving neurodevelopmental differences and social, emotional and mental health. She has a special interest in resilience. She is currently a Principal Teaching Fellow at the University of Strathclyde, Glasgow.