Concerned about 3 year old - delays

[Rabbit32]

Hi MN,

I have a nearly 3 year old in August.
He has always from since I remember, been a strong willed, confident, head strong boy. From 12 months HV said he was behind on communication and speech but had time to catch up. From 2.5 years he started nursery 3 mornings a week. HV then referred to speech therapy as there wasn’t much progress and we only waited 3 months. At our first assessment, DS was saying more than 50 words and a few sentences so SLT said we didn’t need any help as there was progress. The case was left open for a few months incase I felt I needed them but then closed as I wasn’t worried.

So I happily carried on as normal, I read lots to him and talk a lot to him. We applied for 5 mornings a week at nursery in September for more of a routine. However, this week I received his report and for really every section he is scoring as ‘BELOW EXPECTATION’ or ‘JUST BELOW’ as in almost getting it.

Even things like understanding emotions, creative play, forming relationships and more. Other than that they noted how much progress he’s made since being there though. They have never told me they’re concerned so it came as a bit of a shock. I feel totally rubbish like I’ve let DS down in a way.

Should I go back to SLT? Any advice?

If you are still linked up to the slt it probably is worth going back. There might not be a lot they can do but they could talk it through with you.
To be honest for these slight communication delays there doesn't seem to be a whole lot you can do other than what you are already doing....this is just my own observation as a mum but the little boys who are into construction toys and do a lot of independent play do seem a bit behind the little girls in terms of social communication and pretend play. Also it's a report by nursery teachers not developmental specialists. Nursery teachers are often good but obviously it can depend on their experience and it's based on their opinion...it doesn't mean that he's actually outside the normal range for boys of his age.