Workshop for parents of children with language delays.

About the program

It Takes Two to Talk (ITTT) is a program for parents of children with language delays (birth to 5 years). The program assists families to understand more about their child’s communication style and stage of development. Parents also learn practical strategies to develop their child’s communication skills without their children present in sessions. Families work alongside our very own Hanen® trained Speech Pathologists to identify daily routines and activities where communication can be fostered and children can learn new skills. This program was developed by The Hanen Centre and is recognised around the world as one of the best-researched models for early language development. HDST has been successfully running the program since 2018.

How does it work?

The program runs over approximately 3 months and can be delivered face-to-face at our clinic, or online from the comfort of your own home. The program includes:

  • Pre-program consultation – this will include goal setting for individualised communication goals (developed collaboratively with parents) and taking baseline information and videos to compare to at the end of the program.
  • 8 x 3 hour evening group training sessions (parents/carers only) – up to 3 key carers are welcome to participate every group session.
  • 3 x 1.5-2 hour 1:1 video feedback training sessions (per carer wanting to participate in video sessions) – conducted at the home, online, or our clinic at a convenient time.
  • Free and unlimited email and phone support.
  • A written report at the end of the program.
  • 1 X 2 hour post program catch up – approximately 2 months after completion.
  • The ‘It Takes Two to Talk’ book (valued at $80).

You will receive over 34 hours of direct consultation hours (valued at $5,100) as well as invaluable skills that will be beneficial throughout your child’s communication journey.

What are the benefits of attending? 

  • In depth training is provided for multiple parents and carers involved in the child’s care.
  • The program prioritises a family centred service delivery model.
  • Parents and carers will receive support from multiple clinicians and other parents.
  • Parents and carers are able to discuss and share ideas as a group in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
  • The program allows dedicated time to focus on helping you most effectively implement strategies throughout your day to day routines.
  • Parents and carers have time to reflect and evaluate how they are implementing the taught strategies.
  • Learning about how the strategies work at all stages of early communication development helps you develop skills in adapting your communication style as your child develops.
  • The option of online delivery for this program makes it easier for working parents to develop their skills to support their child from the comfort of their own home and without the added pressure of organising care for your child/children whilst you attend.
  • The program utilises a range of materials (e.g. activities, video examples, demonstrations, specific practice activities) to ensure that you can learn the strategies according to your preferred learning style.

How much does it cost to attend?

For more information regarding costs, bookings and funding, please contact us by calling 9054 1996 or emailing bookings@hdspeechtherapy.com.au. Sessions can be funded using NDIS, a Chronic Disease Management plan (individual sessions) and private health insurance.

Next Steps

If you’re interested in learning more about this program, please contact us on (02) 9054 1996 to speak to one of our friendly speech pathologists and find out when our next free orientation session is running!