It is important for parents to realize that their child will greatly benefit from the support and guidance they receive after a speech therapy session ends. There are many fun and engaging activities you and your family can do together to support your child’s speech and language development. Therapy Works Together certified and licensed speech therapists are available to help with speech and language problems for children and adults. They can also assist with stuttering, social skills and articulation issues. Therapy Works Together offers the same expertise and high quality online speech therapy as face-to-face therapy but at a convenience and cost that you desire.
Play is the Power of Play
It is important to recognize the importance of play in children’s speech development. Play with toys and games with your child and show them how to use it. Use an animated voice to emphasize the different parts.
The Power of Words
Your daily interactions are crucial to your child’s growth. Talk clearly and model the words that they are having trouble understanding. Use visual cues to aid in their comprehension. Consistent, clear, and simple speech is the best way to go. Give them time to respond.
Let your child speak for themselves
Instead of limiting your child’s ability to express their feelings, give them the freedom to do so. Instead of asking them “Do you want that or that?” let them speak for themselves.
Active Listening
It can be easy for parents to get lost in the day’s whims and forget to have a meaningful conversation with their children. Instead, ask them questions related to the conversation you are having with them. You should also give them the chance to discuss things that are of interest to them.
Read, Read, and Continue Reading
Reading is an important part of language and speech development. It is never too young to read to your child. You can start with books that only repeat certain words or phrases. Rhyming is great for speech development. Reading the same book repeatedly can help children improve their language skills.
As your children grow, you can give them more challenging books. These books will require them to answer questions beyond the simple yes/no answers. The readings can be dramatic or humorous. To grab their attention, make dramatic and loud sounds.
Enjoy a Fun Time with Flashcards
You can either purchase flashcards or find free ones online that will give your child plenty of practice. Flashcards with difficult sounds should be your priority. Consider offering a reward for correcting a certain number of words/sounds. This will draw your child in. Sugarfree gum, for example, can strengthen their jaws and prevent cavities.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall
Modeling is an essential part of any speech therapy program. Parents can help their children to learn the correct pronunciation by teaching them how to use a mirror. Pick a few words that you find challenging and show your understanding by moving your lips slowly while saying the word. Next, have your child stand in front of the mirror and demonstrate how they move their mouths to make certain sounds.
Make it silly! Include lots of onomatopoeias such as buzz, moo and roar.
Sing along
Children love singing and it can help them learn new words, improve their memory and verbal expression.
