Speech and language skills: their importance in development.

This article presents an overview of speech and language difficulties in children and briefly comments on intervention practices. Difficulties affecting the development of speech and language in children are considered to be the most common of paediatric disabilities and may have long-lasting effects on social skills, behaviour, education and employment. Referral to speech and language therapy services is crucial and primary health care workers have an important role in identifying those at risk. Some signposts for referral are given, though mechanisms and criteria will differ from Trust to Trust. Communication is acknowledged to be a central element in an individual's health and well-being and is critical to emotional, cognitive and social functioning. The application of the ICF framework is considered.