Speech Pathology

Children learn best through play, relationships and meaningful interactions. Our speech pathologists support early communication by modelling language, expanding on your child’s interests, and creating opportunities for them to express themselves in ways that feel natural and fun. We focus on building strong foundations such as understanding language, using words and gestures, turn-taking, attention, and early conversation skills — all guided by your child’s strengths and interests.

Social communication involves more than words – it’s how children connect with others, share ideas, take turns, read cues and engage in play. We help children learn these skills in supportive, child-led ways, using play-based strategies that encourage connection, joint attention, pretend play, and positive social interactions. These skills are essential for building friendships and participating confidently in everyday routines.

Speech pathologists play an important role in early literacy. We help children develop the skills that support reading and writing, such as sound awareness, vocabulary, sentence structure, storytelling and comprehension. Through playful, evidence-informed activities, we build confidence and curiosity around books, letters, sounds and early learning routines – creating a strong foundation for future academic success.

Stuttering can affect a child’s ability to speak smoothly and confidently. Our speech pathologists use gentle, evidence-informed approaches to support fluency, reduce tension and help children feel more comfortable communicating. We work closely with families to build confidence, support expressive language, and create a calm, positive environment for communication growth.

Some children benefit from additional ways to communicate, such as picture boards, visuals, communication books or speech-generating devices. AAC helps children express themselves more easily while supporting the development of spoken language. We guide families through selecting and using AAC systems, modelling strategies, and building confidence so communication feels accessible, empowering and joyful.

Family involvement is key to communication development. We work alongside you to understand your child’s strengths, preferences and everyday routines. During sessions, we model strategies, provide practical ideas, and explain what skills we are targeting and why. Our goal is to help you feel confident using communication strategies at home, school, childcare and in the community.

Sessions are play-based, flexible and tailored to your child’s age and developmental stage. A session may include play, modelling, gesture use, visuals, storytelling, structured tasks or early literacy activities. Each session follows your child’s lead while targeting their communication goals. You’ll always know what we’re working on and how it connects to your child’s broader development.

Our speech pathology services are available in our Port Adelaide clinic, as well as in homes, schools, childcare settings and community environments across Adelaide’s western suburbs. We offer flexible options to ensure therapy fits your family’s needs and supports your child in the places where they live, play and learn.

Trusted by families and educators across Adelaide

Families choose Day by Day Early Intervention for our warm, relationship-based approach and practical, routines-focused support.
We work collaboratively with parents, educators, GPs, and support coordinators to ensure recommendations are clear, timely, and meaningful.

Currently accepting referrals · No waitlist

Ready to take the next step?
Complete the Referral Form so our team can tailor support for your child’s needs.

Learn more about our Occupational Therapy services.

Explore how we work with families on our Working Together page.

Find out how we support meaningful therapy goals on our Setting Goals page.

Read more about our Assessment & Reporting process.

See all of our services on the Therapy page.