"This course has had a massive impact on me and my child"

I was privileged to take part in the Hanen course ran by the lovely Rebecca and Ailsa from Tayside SLT.

At the beginning of the course I felt really lost. I had lost confidence in my ability as a parent and I felt very isolated with a lack of support and understanding from those around me (including some professionals). As a parent to a young child with additional needs, life is tough and it can be a battle to get the help and support you need.

I can honestly say this course has had a massive impact on my child and also me. I have been equipped with the skills and confidence to make a difference to my child’s language development. All thanks to Rebecca and Ailsa! Rebecca came out to do our home visits and I instantly felt safe and comfortable around her. I felt she got my daughter, and really celebrated all her skills and achievements. This was so refreshing as sometimes professionals can be quite negative so it was lovely for someone to see what I see in my child.

Rebecca helped us to develop our confidence in using visuals around the house. My daughter has very poor working memory so visuals helped her to consolidate her learning of language. Rebecca is so encouraging but also gives really clear feedback which helped me to refine what I was doing with my daughter.

The Hanen course has connected me with other parents who just get it. I feel like people say that it takes a village to raise a child and I’ve just found my village and my community. The course sessions were highly engaging and informative and the group were given time to discuss experiences and we could reflect on how we were getting on. I think there needs to be a follow up course developed for after Hanen with parents too. Thanks so much Rebecca and Ailsa!