Social Communication & Interaction
Understanding communication, interaction, and sensory differences
Children and young people communicate, interact, and experience the world in different ways. For some, differences in social interaction, communication style, or sensory processing can affect everyday life, relationships, learning, or emotional wellbeing.
This area of screening focuses on understanding how a child or young person experiences social situations and interaction, and whether additional support or adjustments may be helpful.
For some families, this may include exploring possible neurodivergent traits, such as autism or ADHD, particularly where there is a family history of neurodivergence. Screening is approached in a supportive, non-diagnostic way, with the aim of building understanding and guiding appropriate next steps.
What this screening explores
Social communication and interaction screening may explore areas such as:
- Social interaction and relationships
- Communication styles (verbal and non-verbal)
- Understanding social cues and expectations
- Sensory sensitivities or differences
- Flexibility, routines, and responses to change
- Social overwhelm or withdrawal in certain environments
These differences can be subtle or more noticeable, and may present differently at home, in school, or in social settings.
When this may be helpful
This type of screening may be helpful if:
- A child finds social situations tiring, confusing, or overwhelming
- There are ongoing difficulties with peer relationships
- Communication styles are frequently misunderstood
- Sensory sensitivities affect daily activities
- Concerns have been raised by school, family members, or the individual themselves
- Parents or carers feel unsure how best to support social or emotional needs
How screening is approached
Screening is non-diagnostic and always guided by professional judgement.
It focuses on building understanding rather than applying labels.
Where appropriate, screening may include consideration of autism-related traits, alongside social communication, sensory processing, and environmental factors.
Any tools used are selected carefully and discussed as part of a wider, supportive process.
What families can expect
Following screening, families may receive:
- Clear, accessible feedback
- A summary of strengths and areas of difference
- Practical recommendations and strategies
- Guidance on next steps, where appropriate
- Support with understanding how environments (such as school) may impact wellbeing
A supportive first step
Exploring social communication and interaction does not mean something is “wrong”.
For many families, it is simply a way to better understand their child and identify how to support them more effectively.
If you are unsure whether this area of screening is appropriate, we are happy to discuss this with you before any next steps are taken.