LEAPS

LEAPS (Language Engagement Attention Preschool Supports)

What is LEAPS?

LEAPS is aimed at preschool children who are developing language more slowly than we might expect. LEAPS works through parents and carers to show them what it is they do to support their child’s language so that they can do more of what helps. LEAPS includes a focus on more effective shared engagement and joint attention between a child and their parent or carer. Parents/carers are offered strategies that will support their child’s language development by increasing shared activity and sensitive responding to their child’s attempts to communicate and talk. This approach makes communication and talking easier, more successful and fun and in turn allows the child to practice talking more.

Why use a parent-based approach?

Research evidence shows that training parents/carers to support their children’s language development is effective.  With speech and language therapy advice, parents and carers are best placed to help their child because their child can experience support with the people they spend the most time communicating with. LEAPS encourages you to practice strategies in everyday settings with your child, therefore increasing the number of communication opportunities they have to learn.

What is involved in LEAPS?

You and your child will need to attend the University of Reading Speech and Language Therapy clinic for 5 weekly sessions and then for a follow up appointment 3-4 months later. The approach uses video feedback as you practice new strategies in clinic. You will be asked to practice daily with your child between sessions.