Meeting at SALT unit - what should I ask?

[Sassyfrassy]

We have a meeting at our local speech and language unit next week. Katie is being considered for a place there when she starts reception in September. There are four places and seven children considered. We've been told that Katie stands a good chance since her speech impairment is so severe but also because she is very keen and goes along with anything the SALT wants her to have go at. She's picked up Makaton and cued articulation quickly, but still won't put the sounds together to make words.

Anyways, we've been invited to a meeting and to look around. The unit is attacked to the mainstream school and she'd be spending most time there, but have speech therapy daily. Is there anything in particular that would be good for me to ask about or find out? I just know that if I'm not prepared, I will go around and chat, and come back out having forgotten to ask what I wanted to know.

I would ask questions such as if she isn't accepted as one of the 4 children, what will the alternative be. I think that is an essential question that will ensure you are equiped to fight any potential set-back if you are sure that this place is what she needs.

You can ask what is the usual path from the language unit, and what level she will need to be to move on, and what she is likely to move on to.

You can ask how many of the other children who are being assessed have statements (As this puts them at a distinct advantage) and ask them whether applying for a statutory assessment will help secure her a place (they will say no, but that you even know what a statutory assessment IS will get you some points in your favour in that you might be demanding a lot in the future in provision terms if your dd does NOT get a placement).