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Innerlink Therapy offers a unique Program of Support for developing social communication skills for school-age students. Tools for Talk is an evidence-based program.

Experience building and bonding with buddies!

Tools for Talk is a social communication skills program in Sydney designed to support school-age students to develop confidence, friendships and everyday communication skills. Delivered by experienced Speech Pathologists, this evidence-informed program provides children with opportunities to practise conversations, teamwork, problem-solving and social interactions within a supportive small-group environment.

Through engaging hands-on activities, students develop practical communication strategies while also building meaningful connections with peers who share similar interests. In addition, these activities provide valuable opportunities for children to practise social interactions, strengthen teamwork skills and apply communication strategies in real-life situations. As a result, students develop greater confidence when participating in conversations, expressing their ideas, understanding others and navigating social situations at school and within the wider community. Furthermore, by practising these skills in a supportive group environment, children are better equipped to develop positive relationships and participate more successfully in everyday interactions.

What is included in this social communcation skills program?

  • Four 90-minute sessions designed and delivered by two speech pathologists, based on current, available evidence.
  • Your child will engage in group-based sessions, where they will learn and use social communication skills within various construction-themed activities.
  • Your child’s social communication skills will be profiled at the beginning of the program.
  • Your child will be able to take their creations home to keep.
  • Parents will receive daily communication guides and debriefs.
  • You will receive take-home digital photos to show your family and friends.
  • You will receive an end-of-program report outlining your child’s progress.

Who can attend?

This is open to existing and new clients.  Tools for Talk Program is a small group session for between 6 to 8 students. It is specially designed for lower and upper primary students.

How will my child benefit?

Your child will develop skills for:

  • listening to another person,
  • learning to recognise what another person is thinking and feeling,
  • following a group plan,
  • negotiating and sharing,
  • taking turns in games and conversation,
  • staying on the topic whilst talking to others,
  • They will experience meeting other students who have similar interests,
  • They will enjoy meeting new people in a safe and respectful place, with the support of speech pathologists,
  • They will not feel that they are in therapy, as they will be unleashing their enjoyment of creativity and hands-on learning,
  • They will have fun using tools and construction materials to make their own individual pieces to take home,
  • Your child will use their literacy, fine motor, play, and language skills to achieve a positive and rewarding social interaction.

Further benefits of Tools for Talk

  • Builds confidence in conversations
  • Supports friendship development
  • Improves listening and turn-taking skills
  • Helps children understand different perspectives
  • Develops problem-solving with peers
  • Supports participation in group activities

Frequently Asked Questions

What age group is Tools for Talk suitable for?

ools for Talk supports school-age students, including lower and upper primary-aged children, who want to develop stronger social communication skills and build confidence when interacting with others. Our Speech Pathologists provide a supportive environment where students can practise conversations, understand social interactions and develop practical communication strategies.

What skills does Tools for Talk help children develop?

Tools for Talk supports children to develop conversation skills, listening skills, turn-taking, problem-solving, understanding other people’s perspectives and confidence participating in group activities.

Can I use my NDIS Funding for Tools for Talk?

Participants may access Tools for Talk using NDIS funding when the program aligns with their individual NDIS goals and approved funding plan. Our team works with families and participants to help determine whether the program supports their communication, social participation and functional goals.