Strong reading starts with strong sound awareness. We build the spoken-language foundations that underpin reading and spelling, using structured, explicit methods.
The speech–literacy link
Phonological awareness — hearing, identifying and playing with the sounds in words — is one of the strongest predictors of reading success. Children with speech sound difficulties or language difficulties (including DLD) are at higher risk of finding reading and spelling hard, so early support matters.
Signs you might notice
- Trouble hearing rhymes or breaking words into sounds
- Difficulty learning letter–sound links
- Slow, effortful or inaccurate reading
- Spelling that doesn't match how words sound
- Avoiding reading, or losing confidence
How we help
We assess phonological awareness, phonics and underlying language, then teach the sound–letter code explicitly and systematically. We work alongside your child's school and the Victorian curriculum so the approach is consistent.
Approaches we draw on
We use structured (synthetic) phonics, phonological-awareness training, and the Simple View of Reading as a framework, with decodable practice that builds success. Where we suspect dyslexia, we screen and refer appropriately.
Common questions
Isn't reading the school's job?
Schools do the heavy lifting, and we work with them. But some children need extra, explicit support with the sound foundations of reading — and that's squarely in a speech pathologist's wheelhouse.
My child is bright but can't read — why?
Reading isn't about general intelligence; it relies on specific skills like linking sounds to letters. Many capable children need this taught more explicitly, and respond well when it is.
Do you assess for dyslexia?
We assess the language and phonological skills that underpin literacy, screen for risk, and collaborate or refer for a formal diagnosis where it's helpful.
Explore related support
Let's help your child be heard
Send a referral in a couple of minutes — families and professionals are both welcome. We'll be in touch within 24–48 hours.