07472 367193
Sussex Speech Studio
Nurturing potential
Understanding social communication differences
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Social communication is about how we use language to connect. It's not just what we say, but how we listen, respond and share ideas.
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Some children find it trickier to understand or follow the "unwritten rules" of conversation. This might look like difficulty taking turns, shifting topics, or keeping a conversation flowing. Others may miss tone, facial expressions, or implied meaning.​​
Why support matters
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When social interaction feels difficult or unpredictable, it can affect a child's confidence, friendships and overall wellbeing. Support isn't about changing who a child is. It's about helping them to make sense of communication in a way that feels manageable, and helping others understand and connect with them more easily.
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Therapy build's awareness, social understanding and flexibile communication skills, while respecting each child's strengths and individuality.
My approach to social communication therapy
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My approach is based on the understanding that communication is a two-way process. Instead of teaching scripted "social rules", I help children explore how communication works for them. What feels clear, what feels confusing, and what helps interactions go well.
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Together, we build confidence, self-awareness, and practical communication strategies that support real-life relationships. This includes working on emotions, perspective-taking, flexible interaction skills. and, where helpful, elements of friendship building, teamwork, and shared problem-solving.
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Sessions are active and responsive. We use stories, role-play, scenarios, games, drawing and real-world examples to help children practise communication in meaningful contexts. I also support families and schools to communicate in ways that match a child's pace and preferences.
My training and experience
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With over twenty years of experience supporting children with a wide range of communication profiles, I have worked with many who communicate differently or experience social interaction in their own way.
My professional learning includes approaches such as Social Stories, Comic Strip Conversations, Language for Behaviour and Emotions, narrative-based intervention, perspective taking frameworks, and other evidence-based tools that support social understanding and communication. I also draw on collaborative practice with schools, families and multidisciplinary teams.
Throughout all of this, my focus is on connection, understanding, and supporting each child to communicate in ways that feel natural, comfortable and effective for them.
What a session looks like
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Social communication sessions are interactive, responsive, and tailored to your child's interests and communication profile. Activities might include conversation-based tasks, games or stories, role-play, perspective-taking activities, emotion and self-regulation tools, or reflective discussions about communication experiences. Everything is chosen to help your child make sense of interaction in a way that felt safe, achievable and meaningful.
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Children are encouraged to set their own goals, for example "I want to feel more confident joining in games" or "I want people to understand my jokes". Therapy stays strengths-based and meaningful, focusing on what helps your child communicate with confidence in their own way.
Common questions
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​How can social communication therapy help my child communicate comfortably?
Therapy offers space to understand your child's communication style and what helps interactions feel smoother. It's not about changing who they are, it's about supporting confidence, reducing pressure, and helping others understand them better.
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My child talks a lot. Can they still have social communication needs?
Yes. Some children use plenty of language but find parts of interaction harder, such as turn-taking, reading social cues, or noticing the listener's perspective. Therapy helps children explore these areas in a supportive, low-pressure way while respecting their individuality and strengths.
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How will you involve us as parents or carers?
Parent/carer involvement is central to progress. I'll share what we notice in sessions, explain strategies, and offer ideas that fit your child's everyday routines. The goal is always shared understanding of what helps communication feel easier and more comfortable for your child.
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For more general questions, you can read the full FAQ here.
Ready to take the first step?
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If your child finds connecting with others, noticing social cues, or feeling confident in conversation a bit more challenging, I'd be happy to help.
You can book a free 15-minute phone consultation to share your concerns and ask questions. Together, we’ll work out the best next step for your child.
Use the contact form below, or email me at margaret@sussexspeechstudio.com.
You’re also welcome to call and leave a message on 07472 367193. I'll get back to you as soon as I can during my working hours.