If your child has a speech disorder or impediment, early intervention is the key to successful treatment. You can get the most out of your first speech therapy visit by being prepared and planning ahead.

What to expect at speech therapy

Be Prepared

If your child’s doctor or teacher has made any suggestions, write them down and bring them with you to discuss with your speech therapist.

You may also want to bring your child’s medical history, this way the speech therapist can understand and be aware of any developmental concerns. This will also help in choosing the appropriate materials to evaluate your child.

If your speech therapist has emailed you a medical evaluation or detailed checklist, make sure you fill this out and email it back, to ensure your speech therapist is also prepared for your appointment.

The Office

The speech therapy should take place in a setting that makes your child feel at ease and relaxed. It may have a few toys or equipment used to help your child. You can work with your speech therapist and make suggestions that will make your child feel comfortable. The experience should be fun for the child.

Evaluation

The speech therapist will develop a rapport with the child. This may include toys, games and questions. It should be a pleasant experience for your child, not a test. The speech therapist may not be looking for the correct answer, but accumulating information about your child’s overall oral motor skills, use of language, and attention span.

The Results 

After the evaluation, the speech therapist should have some type of report with their findings. This should include they type of speech disorder or impediment you child has and how to treat it. This should be in the form of a specific outline of the therapy and measurable goals.

If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to discuss them. You know your child better than anyone else.

It isn’t always easy to navigate the trek from the moment of concern to your child getting the appropriate help they need. From the first step to the journey of success, First Words Speech Therapy is here for you. We can guide you through the process, share available resources, from initial screening to developing a comprehensive plan.

Our clinic is conveniently located at 1239 Mount Vernon St. Orlando, Fl. 32803. Contact us for a free phone consultation at 407-810-2773