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Why Do Speech Pathologists Teach Literacy?

June 5, 2025
Why Do Speech Pathologists Teach Literacy?

Understanding the Link Between Speech, Language, and Reading

As a parent, you might be surprised to learn that speech pathologists (also known as speech therapists) often work with children on reading, spelling, and writing skills, not just speech sounds. But the connection between speech, language, and literacy is strong, and early intervention by a speech pathologist can be the key to unlocking your child’s learning potential.

In this article, we’ll explain:

  • Why speech pathologists support literacy
  • What signs to look for in your child
  • How literacy skills are linked to language development
  • When to consider speech pathology support for reading difficulties

What Does a Speech Pathologist Do?

Speech pathologists are trained professionals who assess and support communication skills, including:

  • Speech sounds (articulation)
  • Understanding language (receptive language)
  • Expressing thoughts and ideas (expressive language)
  • Social communication
  • Early literacy and school readiness

Their deep understanding of how language develops makes them uniquely qualified to identify and support underlying language issues that impact reading and writing.


Why Do Speech Pathologists Work on Literacy Skills?

Reading is a language-based skill. To learn to read, children need to:

  • Understand spoken language
  • Hear and manipulate sounds in words (phonological awareness)
  • Recognise letter-sound relationships
  • Build vocabulary and grammar knowledge

Children who have difficulties with speech, language or social communication often struggle with one or more of these skills, making reading, spelling, and writing more difficult as they enter school.

That’s where a speech pathologist comes in.

They can:

  • Identify early signs of reading difficulties
  • Strengthen the building blocks of literacy through targeted intervention
  • Use evidence-based programs to support reading, spelling, and writing development
  • Help your child catch up before the learning gap widens

Signs Your Child May Need Literacy Support from a Speech Pathologist

You may want to seek help if your child:

  • Struggles to recognise letters or sounds
  • Has difficulty sounding out simple words
  • Confuses similar-sounding words (e.g., “top” vs. “pop”)
  • Has a limited vocabulary for their age
  • Makes frequent grammar errors
  • Avoids reading or becomes frustrated easily
  • Has trouble following conversations or understanding social cues

These can be early indicators of language or phonological processing challenges, which can affect reading success without the right support.


How Speech Pathologists Support Literacy Development

Speech pathologists use structured and individualised approaches to build:

  • Phonological awareness: hearing and working with sounds in spoken words
  • Phonics skills: understanding the connection between letters and sounds
  • Vocabulary and comprehension: knowing what words mean and how to use them
  • Spelling and sentence structure: expressing thoughts clearly in writing

They tailor sessions to meet each child’s specific needs, helping them build a strong foundation before reading becomes frustrating or overwhelming.

Early Intervention Makes a Big Difference

The earlier you support your child’s language and literacy development, the easier it is for them to develop confidence and avoid falling behind. Working with a speech pathologist early can prevent more significant challenges later in their school journey.

“Reading is a language skill, and language is what speech pathologists know best.”
Get Expert Help from a Speech Pathologist

Whether it’s reading, spelling, or communication challenges, it’s worth talking to a speech pathologist. Many families find peace of mind in having a clear plan and watching their child thrive with the right support.

 Visit our Speech Pathology page  
 Book a session