How Schools Can Identify Students Who Need Speech Therapy

Early identification of speech and language challenges in children is one of the most powerful ways schools can support academic and social success. In Cambodia, where classrooms often include multilingual learners and diverse communication needs, recognizing when a child may need speech therapy is essential. Teachers, school leaders, and support staff in Phnom Penh play a vital role in spotting early signs and connecting families to professional help like the Speech Therapy Program at OrbRom Center.

Understanding the Importance of Early Speech Intervention

Speech and language development are closely linked to a child’s ability to learn, read, and socialize. When these skills lag behind, students may struggle to express ideas, follow lessons, or participate in class discussions. This is why early intervention through speech therapy can make a life-changing difference.

Schools in Phnom Penh are uniquely positioned to observe children daily and notice developmental differences early on. By identifying speech delays and referring students for assessments, schools can prevent long-term learning difficulties and improve confidence, communication, and classroom engagement.

Common Signs That a Child May Need Speech Therapy

Every child develops at a different pace, but certain speech and language milestones can guide teachers and parents. A student may need speech therapy if they:

• Struggle to pronounce sounds correctly or are hard to understand after age 4.

• Have limited vocabulary or trouble finding words during conversation.

• Show difficulty understanding instructions, even when directions are simple.

• Avoid speaking in class or become frustrated when trying to communicate.

• Exhibit stuttering, voice strain, or unclear articulation that persists for months.

• Have challenges with grammar, sentence structure, or storytelling.

In Cambodia, teachers often notice these concerns in preschool and early primary grades. For example, a student might rely heavily on gestures rather than words, or their peers might have trouble understanding their speech during playtime. These small signs are important indicators that professional evaluation may be needed.

Schools can direct families to a qualified speech-language pathologist for further support. The Assessments at OrbRom Center provide detailed insights into each child’s communication strengths and areas for growth.

The Teacher’s Role in Identifying Speech and Language Needs

Teachers are often the first to recognize communication challenges because they observe how students interact, listen, and respond throughout the school day. Effective teachers in Phnom Penh classrooms:

• Document observations of speech patterns, listening skills, and social behavior.

• Communicate concerns with school counselors, learning support teams, or parents.

• Collaborate with specialists to adapt lesson delivery and classroom expectations.

For instance, a preschool teacher might notice a student who points instead of speaking, or a primary teacher may observe a learner who avoids reading aloud. These insights are crucial in the referral process for speech therapy services in Phnom Penh.

Schools can also hold professional development workshops to help educators identify the early warning signs of speech and language difficulties. Collaboration between teachers and therapists ensures that interventions are consistent across school and home environments.

Partnering with Speech Therapists and Families

A strong school–therapist partnership is key to successful outcomes. Once a student is referred for therapy, consistent communication between teachers, parents, and speech-language pathologists helps maintain progress.

At OrbRom Center, therapists often share home-based strategies and progress updates, allowing teachers to reinforce communication skills in the classroom. Activities such as storytelling, vocabulary games, and structured playtime can strengthen the child’s ability to express themselves clearly.

Schools can also invite parents for regular updates and encourage them to engage in daily conversation at home. For more ideas on family involvement, explore How Parents Can Reinforce Speech Goals at Home.

When to Seek a Professional Assessment

If speech or language concerns persist beyond six months, it’s important to seek a formal assessment. Speech therapists use standardized tools to evaluate articulation, language comprehension, fluency, and social communication. Early evaluation allows schools to provide targeted interventions and, when needed, access additional support such as the Special Needs Intensive Intervention Program.

In Phnom Penh, services like Speech Therapy Cambodia and Occupational Therapy at OrbRom Center work together to support students with multiple developmental needs. Through collaboration, schools can ensure each child receives holistic and inclusive care.

Building a Supportive, Inclusive School Environment

Identifying students who need speech therapy is not just about observation—it’s about creating an inclusive learning community. Teachers can foster a positive atmosphere where every child feels heard, respected, and encouraged to communicate.

Simple classroom practices, such as allowing extra time for responses, using visual aids, and modeling clear speech, can make a big difference. When schools actively collaborate with therapists and families, children gain the tools and confidence they need to thrive academically and socially.

Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of speech and language challenges is the first step toward empowering students to reach their full potential. In Cambodia’s diverse classrooms, teachers and school leaders play a vital role in early detection and referral. By partnering with expert therapists at OrbRom Center’s Speech Therapy Program, schools in Phnom Penh can ensure that every child has the opportunity to communicate, learn, and grow with confidence.