Speech and Language Nursery (SLN)

Nursery Specialist Speech & Language Unit

Speech and Language Nursery
Downe Manor has a specialist Speech and Language Nursery (SLN), formerly known as ICAN, within our mainstream nursery setting, designed to support up to ten children with significant speech and language difficulties.

We provide intensive speech and language support for children whose primary needs may include their understanding and use of language and/or their speech sounds. Sessions are led by a specialist Educational Practitioner and Nursery Nurse, who work with the children five days a week, alongside a dedicated NHS Speech and Language Therapist available two mornings per week.

We deliver a minimum of two daily focused small group sessions, as well as 1:1 intervention, and integrate support within the mainstream nursery environment. We use Makaton, aided language displays, and various other tools to enhance and develop children’s speech, language, and communication skills.

To be eligible for the SLN, children must meet the following criteria:

• Be at least three years old
• Have an open referral with Ealing’s Speech and Language Therapy Service
• Commit to attending a minimum of two academic terms, five mornings per week
• Have language and/or significant speech sound difficulties as their primary need
• Require an intensive level of input and be able to engage in adult-led activities
• Show an underlying desire to communicate, despite speech and language difficulties

For further information, please contact the Ealing Speech and Language Therapy Service.

How Makaton Works

Makaton uses speech with signs (gestures) and symbols (pictures) to help people communicate.

We also use facial expression, eye contact and body language to give as much information as possible.

This helps build and develop important communication and language skills.