Pediatric Speech Therapy

How Do You Know if Your Child Needs Speech Therapy?

You may be wondering how to know if your child needs speech therapy. Here are five signs that may indicate your child would benefit from seeing a speech therapist:

• Your child has difficulty saying certain sounds – If your little one is having trouble making specific sounds, such as "s" or "r", this could be a sign that they need speech therapy.
• Your child started talking late – Every child develops at their own pace, but if your child is significantly behind their peers in terms of language development, it may be time to seek out speech therapy services.
• Your child uses nonspecific words – If your toddler points to a dog and says, "that thing" instead of "dog", this could be an indication that they need help with language development.
• Your child has trouble following directions – If your child has difficulty understanding and carrying out simple instructions, they may need speech therapy.
• Your child seems frustrated or withdrawn – If your child is exhibiting signs of frustration due to their difficulty communicating, or if they seem to be withdrawing from social situations, speech therapy could help them learn the skills they need to communicate effectively and feel more confident in social settings.

What to Expect

Children enrolled in speech therapy can expect to participate in a variety of activities designed to improve their communication skills. These may include practicing sounds and words, learning to follow directions, and participating in conversations. The therapist will also work on developing the child's ability to understand and use nonverbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions.

Throughout the sessions, the therapist will provide feedback and encouragement to help the child make progress. By working on these skills, children can learn to communicate more effectively and confidently.

Different Types of Speech Disorders That Children Have

Speech disorders can be broadly divided into two categories: problems with articulation and problems with fluency.

Articulation disorders involve difficulty making certain sounds, while fluency disorders involve issues with the flow of speech, such as stuttering.

Children can also have a voice disorder, which is characterized by an abnormal pitch, volume, or quality of the voice. Although speech disorders are relatively common, there is a wide range in severity.

We would be happy to discuss your child's individual needs and goals and answer any questions you may have. Every child deserves a chance to shine in our clinics. Find our nearest location to get the services you need.

What To Expect From The First Few Speech Therapy Sessions

Parents often ask what the first few speech therapy sessions will be like for their child. Here's what you can expect:

• We will ask questions about your child's development, medical history, and current symptoms. This information will help the therapist understand your child's needs and develop a treatment plan.
• The therapist will observe your child in action. The therapist may watch your child talk, eat, or perform other activities. This will help the therapist identify areas of difficulty and potential goals for treatment.
• After observing your child, the therapist will work with you to develop specific goals for treatment.
• The therapist will then create a treatment plan to help your child reach these goals. Treatment may involve activities, exercises, games, and/or equipment. The therapist will also provide guidance on how you can support your child's progress at home.
• The first few speech therapy sessions are an important time for assessing your child's needs and developing a plan to help them reach their fullest potential. By working closely with the therapist, you can ensure that your child gets the most out of therapy.

By the end of the initial evaluation process, you should have a good idea of what therapy will entail and how it can help your child reach their full potential. We are here to answer any questions you may have along the way. Find our nearest location to get the services you need.