What Is Pediatric Speech Therapy?

You’ve recently been told that your child will need speech therapy. But what does that mean exactly? How concerned should you be about your child’s ability to talk? And what will speech therapy be like anyway? Here is a brief introduction to speech therapy, which should prepare you for this helpful and often enjoyable outpatient treatment.

When is speech therapy used?

Pediatricians commonly recommend speech therapy during critical periods of a child’s speech development. Other children will see a speech therapist regularly if they have experienced some kind of trauma or injury that affects their speech or swallowing. Many times children have difficulty with the mechanics of forming words or sounds and need regular exercises to improve those movements. Others have trouble putting sounds together to make language. Regardless, the amount of speech therapy required usually varies depending on the severity of the impediment and the patient’s ability to apply therapy methods.

What happens during a speech therapy visit?

During the patient’s first visit, he or she is evaluated. Depending on the patient’s age and medical history, a variety of tests are given to assess a number of areas involving speech and language. These tests aren’t anything to worry about. They are usually fairly straightforward and often enjoyable for children.

Once a patient is evaluated, the number and frequency of a patient’s visits are determined. The types of therapies used will be decided also. For children, therapy often involves various fun, interactive games or songs that develop fine motor skills and encourage speech and language development.

Be sure to ask your child’s speech therapist questions before the evaluation and during the therapy process. The therapist will keep you informed about improvements and how to best work on exercises at home. Staying engaged throughout the process will guarantee that you and your child receive the most out of the therapy visits.

If you have any questions about your child’s speech development, please visit the Plantation General Hospital website or call our free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-866-442-2362.

Sources:

What Is Speech Language Therapy? (Kids Health)

Speech Language Evaluation Process (Speech Therapy Web)

Speech and Language (NIDCD)

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