Some children need extra support learning how to connect, communicate, and build relationships with others. Social communication skills develop over time and play an important role in confidence, friendships, and everyday interactions.

What are social communication skills?

Social communication (also called pragmatic language) is how children use language, gestures, and play to connect with others.

These skills help children:

• Start and maintain conversations

• Understand others’ thoughts and feelings

• Use and interpret body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice

• Build relationships and friendships

Why play is important

For young children, play is the foundation of communication.

Through play, children learn to:

• Take turns and share

• Work together and problem-solve

• Express thoughts, emotions, and ideas

• Understand social rules and expectations

• Build confidence with peers

Signs your child may need speech therapy

• Difficulty starting or maintaining conversations

• Trouble understanding social cues (facial expressions, tone, body language)

• Limited or repetitive play skills

• Difficulty joining or staying engaged in group play

• Challenges understanding others’ emotions or perspectives

• Struggles with back-and-forth interaction

What speech therapy looks like

• Play-based sessions that feel natural and engaging

• Role-play and real-life social scenarios

• Teaching how to recognize and respond to social cues

• Practicing conversation skills (turn-taking, topic maintenance)

• Building confidence in peer interactions and friendships

When to reach out

• Difficulty making or maintaining friendships

• Struggles with social interactions at school or in groups

• Trouble understanding social situations or emotions

• You feel your child needs support with communication

👉 Early support can help children feel more confident and connected.

Serving families in Portland, Oregon

Speech therapy services for children in Portland and surrounding areas.