One client in particular tends to mumble, speak very quickly and doesn't tend to use full words.

HelenT

This discussion was created from comments split from: I'm Chris, I specialise in working with children with autism, asperger's and learning disabilities.

HelenT

Hi Chris,
I am an activities co-ordinator for a CIC (a not for profit organisation) called E.L.I.T.E who promote independent living for adults 16 and over who are less able or disabled. I deal with many people ranging from people with autism to learning difficulties to cerebal palsy. A few of my clients have problems with their speech. Once client in particular tends to mumble, speak very quickly and doesn't tend to use full words. He also stutters quite a bit. I know you work more with children, but wondered if you had any general advice for me to help him with his speech and to help others going forward? I am starting a numeracy and literacy class also, so could perhaps use techniques in these classes?
Many Thanks in Advance

LondonSpeechTherapy

Hi Helen, apologies for the very late response. Advice around speech sounds can be tricky without me knowing which sounds he finds difficult and also whereabouts in the words he finds them difficult too. From my work with adults with learning disabilities I often came across individuals who had difficulties with the clarity of their speech. One strategy is to work on interpersonal skills such such as visual prompts for the individual to: 1) face the person that they a talking to (I try not to emphasise 'eye contact' as this can lead to inappropriate staring etc), 2) supplement your speech with gestures/signing the keywords in the sentence, 3) use a 'louder' voice (when using a 'soft' voice adds to the unitelligbility), 4) remaining 'on topic' (eg knowing the context of the conversation can help you to follow less clear speech). Let me know if you have any other questions. Chris