‘It’s a continuous fight isn’t it?’: Parents’ views of the educational provision for children with speech and language difficulties

Abstract

This study used a qualitative research methodology to explore parents’ views of a number of issues relating to the educational provision for their children with speech, language, and communication difficulties (SLCD). In total, 51 parents took part in seven focus groups around England. Parents were asked to discuss their views on the education being provided for their children; the knowledge of teachers and speech and language therapists about the educational needs of children with speech, language, and communication difficulties; and training for teachers and speech and language therapists (SLTs). The findings that emerged indicated that the parents who participated in this study felt strongly that the education provided for their children depended not so much on ‘need’ as on luck and how hard they could fight for their children. Speech therapy provision was often scarce and teachers did not always understand the needs of children with SLCD. Children experienced a range of difficulties in school because of their special needs. The results are discussed in relation to other studies that have been carried out on parents’ views and the future training needs of teachers and SLTs.