Here at Theraspeak Speech & Language Therapy we like to provide parents and families with resources, strategies and tricks they can practice at any time and place. Here are our TOP FIVE WAYS you can encourage speech and language development right now.
Ask Less Questions
Communication is not a test of knowledge
You always want to refrain from "quizzing" your child. This can increase cognitive load and lessen interest in communication. We want children to be intrinsically motivated to communicate and know that speech and language can be fun. Let's remember, speech is not a task. It is a way for children to connect to the world around them.
Our Tips:
Instead of asking questions, throw in some comments!
For example:
"Wow! That's a big tower you made!"
"What a fast car!"
"I love playing with this toy!"
Simplify Your Speech
Simple speech makes things easier for your child to understand
Slower speech and more simplified language can make things easier for your child to understand and puts emphasis on key words.
Our tips:
-Slow down your speech
-stretch out sounds
-use less words
For example:
Instead of, "You have to put on your shoes" try, "Put shoes on!"
Allow Time to Process
Sometimes kids just need a little extra time
Processing speed is a cognitive skill that refers to how fast a child can understand and react to what is spoken. It is said that the average person (without any communication difficulties) takes at least 10-15 seconds to process novel information- wow! With that being said, let's give our kids more time.
Reference Things Around You
The world in their oyster
Practicing speech, language and communication does not have to only be done with a licensed speech-language pathologist; nor does it need to be done at a designated time, at a table or in an office. Speech therapy can be done anywhere in your environment at any time!
Our tips:
-Point to things both new and old
Your child is always watching and learning even when you don't think so
-Narrate all you do
Describe daily tasks such as, "I'm folding the blue shirt" or "we're washing the big/small cup"
Have Patience
Know that each child grows at his or her own pace
Patience is key when raising any child but especially important to remember when raising a child with communication difficulties.
Remember that no two children are alike. Quit comparing developmental milestones with parents around you and focus on meeting your child where he or she is at. Good things take time...
Written by:
Melinda Ferreira Vargas, M.S., CCC-SLP
Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist
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