Early communication
Late talking, first words, understanding language and knowing when to seek advice.
Parent Knowledge Centre
Clear information for parents.
A practical library for families thinking about speech, language and communication. Start with the concern that brought you here, then explore the relevant service, assessment or research.
Start here
Find information by concern.
You do not need to know the name of a diagnosis or disorder before asking for help. A concern about communication is enough to start a conversation.
Speech
Information about speech clarity, speech sounds and motor speech difficulties.
Autism & communication
Practical information about communication, interaction and supporting autistic children in ways that respect their individual communication styles.
AAC
Learn about augmentative and alternative communication, communication access and AAC informed therapy.
Language
Support for children who find it difficult to understand or use language to communicate their thoughts, needs and ideas.
Fluency & social communication
Guidance for families thinking about stammering, social communication and participation.
A simple journey
From concern to a clearer next step.
01
Tell us what you have noticed
02
Understand your child's communication
03
Agree priorities and goals
04
Support progress and review
Guides & articles
Guide01
When to See a Speech Therapist
Signs that professional advice may be helpful, and when monitoring may be appropriate.
Read the guide
Guide02
Is My Child a Late Talker?
What late talking can mean and when it may be appropriate to seek an assessment.
Read the guide
Guide03
Child Not Talking?
A practical guide to possible reasons and appropriate next steps.
Read the guide
Reference04
Speech & Language Milestones
A clear, age by age reference from 12 months to 5 years.
Read the guide
Guide05
How to Help Your Child Talk
Practical, evidence informed strategies that can support communication at home.
Read the guide
Guide06
Private Therapy vs the HSE Waiting List
An objective overview of the options available while waiting for HSE services.
Read the guide
Milestones
A useful reference, not a checklist.
Every child develops differently. Our milestones guide provides a useful reference from 12 months to 5 years and should be considered alongside your child's individual development.
View the milestones guide
Common questions, clearly answered.
When should we seek speech therapy?+
If you have concerns about your child's speech, language or communication, it is reasonable to seek professional advice. A speech and language therapist can help you understand your child's current communication profile and whether assessment or intervention would be appropriate.
What happens before therapy starts?+
The first step is understanding your concerns and your child's communication profile. Depending on the situation, this may lead to an initial consultation, a fuller assessment or a therapy plan.
Can parents be involved?+
Yes. Parent involvement can be an important part of therapy. Where appropriate, your therapist will share practical strategies that can be incorporated into everyday routines.
How long is each session?+
Standard appointments are 60 minutes in total, comprising 45 minutes of direct clinical work with your child and 15 minutes for clinical documentation, progress notes and planning.
Do you accept health insurance?+
Yes. Spark Speech accepts eligible private health insurance claims. Coverage varies between insurers and individual plans, so families should confirm benefits directly with their insurer.
Where do sessions take place?+
All therapy is delivered in person at our Stillorgan studio. Spark Speech does not offer teletherapy or online therapy sessions.
Not sure where to start?
Register your interest and the Spark Speech team can help you understand the most appropriate next step.