Hills Speech & Learning Centre

25/01/2026

With schools opening in a week, this AAC chat board supports children as they navigate their first few weeks back. Enjoy the final week of holidays!

Credit: Two Way Street – “Back to School”

18/01/2026

Communication Milestones Guide:
The child demonstrates communication skills that are developing along expected milestones. Early communication skills such as eye contact, joint attention, and use of gestures are emerging/established. Receptive language skills include understanding familiar words and simple instructions, while expressive language skills are demonstrated through vocalisations, single words, and/or early word combinations appropriate for their developmental stage. Speech sound development and play-based communication skills are consistent with current age expectations, with ongoing opportunities to support language expansion through everyday interactions.

18/01/2026

Vocabulary Milestones:

Every child develops at their own pace, but as a general guide:
-12 months: ~1–5 words (plus gestures)
-18 months: ~20 words; starting to learn new words quickly
-24 months: ~50+ words and beginning to combine words (e.g. “more milk”)
-3 years: 200+ words; short sentences, understood by familiar adults.

Remember, these are guidelines, not rules. If you ever have any concerns about your child’s speech or language, it’s always best to get it checked out early as early support makes a big difference!

15/01/2026

Easy speech therapy tips while you enjoy spending time with your child. Little moments every day make a big difference.

-Use choices: Offer two options (e.g. “Do you want apple or banana?”) to encourage talking.
-Talk, talk, talk: Describe what you’re doing during daily routines (shopping, cooking, travelling).
-Read together daily: Talk about the pictures and ask simple questions.
-Play games: Turn-taking games support listening, attention, and language.

Keep it fun, positive and relaxed: Short, playful practice works best.

06/01/2026

The clinic is currently closed for a break and will reopen on Monday, 27 January 2026. I look forward to welcoming you back then.
While sessions are on hold, here are a few simple speech and language tips you can use at home:
Talk during everyday routines – describe what you’re doing while cooking, getting dressed, or travelling.
Read together daily – talk about the pictures, ask simple questions, and encourage your child to point to or name items.
Pause and wait – give your child extra time to respond or attempt words without rushing them.
Model, don’t correct – repeat your child’s words back clearly and correctly rather than asking them to “say it again.”
Keep it fun and pressure-free – short, playful interactions are more effective than long practice sessions.
If you need to get in touch, please feel free to email info@hslc.com.au, and I’ll respond once the clinic reopens.
Keep it simple, fun, and positive.
Have a safe break!

01/01/2026

“Happy New Year! Wishing you a joyful year ahead filled with progress, confidence, and success.”

18/12/2025

We’re spreading holiday cheer with a special Santa visit at our speech clinic! 🎅🎁 Let’s celebrate progress, confidence, and communication this season!

28/11/2025

Teaching Gratitude to young children is very important. Gratitude means looking at the good things around us and feeling glad. Even small things—like sunshine, a tasty snack, or a cozy hug—are special. Let’s practice saying thank you for the good things in our day!”

Explain children everyday, something kind and wonderful happens to us. Maybe a friend shares a toy, a teacher helps us, or someone gives us a big smile. When we notice these kind things and say ‘thank you,’ we get more happiness.

17/11/2025

Fun learning day today!
Stay tuned for fun- filled week celebrating reading, language, and communication at HSLC.
I will be running engaging literacy activities to support phonological awareness, vocabulary growth, narrative skills, and early reading development.

03/11/2025

Praise your children for all their efforts.
Your recognition and Praise matters!
Every word, sound, and gesture counts on your child’s communication journey. As parents and caregivers, celebrating small successes builds confidence and motivation.
Celebrate success — whether it’s saying a new word, making eye contact, or trying again after a mistake.
Recognise the smaller steps — progress doesn’t always happen overnight. Every attempt is a step toward stronger communication skills.

08/10/2025

Quick tip💡
Enjoy Spring break together😊
Remember the 4:1 Ratio – Commenting vs. Questioning�Aim for four comments for every one question when interacting with your child.
Why?
This is because constant questioning can make kids feel like they're being tested all the time.
Instead, try to:
✅ Follow their lead�✅ Comment on what they're doing or what you're doing�✅ Expand on what they’ve said
This encourages natural conversation and helps build confidence in communication. Let them enjoy expressing themselves without the pressure of “getting it right” all the time!

22/09/2025