1. UCL Institute of Education
Dr Rosalind Merrick
UCL Institute of Education
Lay summary Good therapy is centred around the child and family’s needs and aspirations. This is good professional practice and a legal requirement. Yet in the case of speech, language and communication needs, it can be difficult to ascertain the child’s view. This research demonstrates how perspectives between stakeholders can differ, and how children’s voice can be given recognition.
Question/Rationale How can ‘Picture Me’ materials (Merrick, 2014) be used to put children’s views and aspirations at the centre of their therapy?
What did you do?
1. Data collection
2. Analysis
3. Person-centred planning
Picture Me materials were used with children at initial assessment/ review assessment
Children’s utterances were recorded, transcribed and analysed.
Children’s views were compared with those of parents and/or teachers; therapy targets devised
What did you find out? The ‘Picture Me’ materials stimulated children’s conversation about their experience of communication, their strengths and their concerns. The children’s views often reflected a different angle from those of the parent/teacher, and therapy targets could be shaped accordingly.
References: Merrick, R. (2014). Picture Me: Children's Views of Speech, Language and Communication Needs. Guildford: J&R Press.
Implications: . The materials are considered a valuable tool for involving children in planning and reviewing their therapy.