Social Communication

Social Communication refers to:

• Non-Verbal interaction, such as pointing, gesture, facial expression, signing
• Verbal interaction, such as speaking or making sounds

It is how we function in social situations (e.g. requesting, greeting) and adapt depending on the situation. At a higher level it includes conversational skills such as taking turns and staying on topic.

The Speech and Language Therapy team can be involved in developing a child’s social communication skills by:

• Supporting to develop early communication skills
• Supporting language/speech development
• Suggesting alternative methods of communication and supporting to implement
• Supporting with ideas on using visuals/adapting environment/developing social skills

This section includes relevant resources and advice to support the development of a range of social communication skills. Please look at the ‘Useful Downloads’ tab.

Please also view our Autism Spectrum Disorder page for more information.