T21 Alchemy

Beyond Words: Understanding Speech and Communication in Down Syndrome (with Cathy Johnston)


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Host Oneness Sankara talks with speech therapist Cathy Johnston from the Lejeune Clinic about what parents really need to know about communication for children with Down syndrome (T21).

What you'll learn:

  • Speech vs communication—and why the difference changes everything
  • Why speech carries such heavy emotional weight for families
  • The anatomy behind Down syndrome speech challenges
  • When "early intervention" actually starts (it's simpler than you think)
  • Practical home tools: Makaton, visual supports, parent-child interaction
  • Neuroplasticity truth: there's no "missed boat" for your child

Key takeaways:

  • Your child communicates constantly, even without words
  • Parent interaction > formal therapy for language growth
  • Communication is everyone's job, not just yours
  • You're doing enough. You're not alone.

Resources: Lejeune Clinic - Makaton - Hanen "It Takes Two to Talk" - Speech and Language UK

About Cathy Johnston: 20+ years as speech therapist specialising in under-5s with Down syndrome. Works with Lejeune Clinic + NHS, focusing on early intervention and family support.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Intro
00:53 Cathy Johnston introduction
02:40 Kathy's background
05:17 Parents' biggest communication worries
11:00 Speech vs communication
15:20 Why speech matters emotionally
20:00 Speech-biased society
23:00 Rhythm, music, vocalizing
27:00 Speech anatomy
30:00 Down syndrome speech challenges
32:00 Brain development/neuroplasticity
35:00 Early intervention reality
38:00 Parent advocacy balance
42:00 Communication as team effort
52:00 Makaton + visual tools
55:00 Parent-child interaction
60:00 Closing reassurance

#DownSyndrome #T21 #SpeechTherapy #SEND #Parenting

Resources Mentioned:

  • Lejeune Clinic: www.lejeuneclinic.com
  • Makaton:https: www.makaton.org
  • See and Learn: www.seeandlearn.com
  • Hanen Program (It Takes Two to Talk): www.hanen.org  
  • Speech and Language UK: www.speechandlanguage.org.uk

Part of T21 Alchemy: Black SEND parenting, disability inclusion, and theatre storytelling.
Instagram: @t21alchemy

Supported by Arts Council England
T21 Alchemy podcast episodes and theatre R&D supported using public funding by Arts Council England.

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T21 AlchemyBy Oneness Sankara