The core of who we are, is communication. It is vital for our interaction with other, our ability to function on a daily basis, and learn. Just imagine how you would feel if people had difficulty understanding you, or you couldn’t understand others. Life would be hard. Which is why children with communication disorders have frequent behavior problems, don’t do well in school, and have social issues.
Life is much harder for children who cannot effectively communicate. Many don’t feel good about themselves and act out in destructive ways. Which is why the “wait and see” or “they will catch up” methods can be detrimental. Early intervention goes beyond just helping your child speak clearly. It is crucial for overcoming academic and social problem.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), explains how early detection pays off
Maximize your child’s success
Treatment at any age is worthwhile, but earlier is almost always most effective. This can reduce the need for school-based services later on.
Save time and money
It can take less time to treat a communication delay or disorder when families act on the early warning signs. Fewer treatment sessions can also mean fewer out-of-pocket expenses. Many early intervention programs offer free or low-cost services to children ages birth to 3 years and their families. They also can link you to other community supports.
Prepare your child for kindergarten
What happens between birth and age 3 lays the foundation for kindergarten readiness. Strong speech, language, cognitive, and social skills are necessary for reading, writing, and academic success—as well as all the other demands of school.
Set your child on a course to school, social, and life success
All families want what’s best for their children. Acting early can have positive, long-lasting effects on your child’s communication, social relationships, learning, and daily life activities well into adulthood.
Children develop at different rates, comparing them to other children is not necessarily an effective way to measure your child’s speech or language development. But equally important, if you suspect your child has a speech or language disorder, it is important to take action
First Words Speech Therapy offers personalized care to meet your child’s speech and language needs. As a mobile service provider, we are able to render therapy at the child’s home, daycare, charter/private school, or in the community.
