Children see a speech therapist for a variety of different reasons. Whether it is for some type of speech disorder, difficulty pronouncing words, quality of speech, trouble with volume or pitch, or having a limited understanding of the meaning of words, not meeting developmental milestones, attention disorder, or other reasons, speech therapy proven to be very beneficial.
Speech therapy has helped children in many ways
Improve their communication skills, so they are better able to express their feelings and thoughts.
Develop their speech, enabling others to understand what they say
Ensure they are prepared for school and able to keep up their milestones.
Improve their quality of vocals
Increase their independence and self esteem
Improve their communications
Speech therapy is so more than physical speech. The American Speech Language Hearing Association defines a communication disorder as, “an impairment in the ability to receive, send, process, and comprehend concepts or verbal, nonverbal and graphic symbol systems. A communication disorder may be evident in the processes of hearing, language, and/or speech. A communication disorder may range in severity from mild to profound. It may be developmental or acquired.”
Improves social skills
Social skills are vital for interacting with others. Social skills are often delayed when a child has limited speech. There are a number of different strategies, role playing and modeling, social stories, and various tools to improve social skills.
Improves reading
Speech delay can also cause issues with reading, listening, and writing. Literacy and reading skills can considerably aid in communication. These skills are essential in being able to communicate with others.
Alternative communication methods are enhanced
Not all communication is done through spoken language. Total communication approach is the use of gestures, facial expressions, writing, eye contact and other forms of communication.
Reduces frustration
Improved communication skills can significantly reduce the frustration a child feels. Children with communication disorders often experience emotional, psychological, and social frustration and anxiety. Speech therapy will use special exercises, imitation, and repetition to help focus on improving these skills.
Early intervention is key
When speech – language issues are identified early, treatment has positive results. If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to contact First Words Therapy. We take a holistic approach to speech-language-therapy to help your child communicate more effectively.
