Speech and language skills play a critical role in a child’s development, allowing them to communicate effectively and better understand the world around them. Without these skills, they may struggle socially, emotionally, and academically. Fortunately, speech therapy — coupled with at-home reinforcement during daily activities — can help them improve their communication abilities.
In today’s blog post, let’s explore seven practical tips to support your child’s speech therapy at home.
1. Use simple and clear language.
To help build a strong foundation for your child, communicate with age-appropriate and easy-to-understand vocabulary. Use functional, everyday words like “up,” “go,” and “more”, and then offer praise for their efforts. Engaging in everyday conversations will help them to develop their language skills and vocabulary, improve their listening skills, and allow them to express themselves in new ways.
2. Take advantage of everyday activities.
Think about all of the daily interactions you have with your child — from playtime and mealtime to bath time and bedtime. These everyday activities give children the opportunity to practice their speech and language skills in real-life situations, allowing for meaningful and exciting connection. For instance, when racing toy cars, imitate the sounds of the cars (“vroom!”) to help support their language development.
3. Give your child options.
When you let your child choose how they want to learn, they gain self-confidence. Not only does it help them practice decision-making and problem-solving in the moment, but it teaches them how to express their wants and needs. For example, during snack time, offer two choices and name each item. Praise any efforts that your child makes to name both items as well as their choice!
Giving them options also empowers them. It’s no secret that choices allow a child to feel in control and gain independence, an imperative part of personal development.
4. Be creative!
Children learn best through play — so make your child’s speech therapy fun! Incorporate games and activities, like puzzles and crafts, into their daily exercises. You can also encourage your child to role-play various situations, like sharing with friends, talking to their teacher, or going to the doctor.
5. Practice your child’s speech therapy as a family.
Speech therapists encourage their patient families to involve siblings, grandparents, and other relatives in speech therapy activities. Doing so creates a supportive environment where the patient can focus on their goals. This extra practice also increases fluency and builds confidence. Plus, it allows for consistency, letting the child know that everyone in their life is clued into their therapy.
6. Make it a habit.
Speaking of consistency, it’s imperative that you and your child work on their speech therapy exercises on a regular basis — a few times each week, if not every day. Developing a predictable routine, like role playing during bath time or doing puzzles after nap, helps your child to feel more secure and comfortable with their therapy. Additionally, both you and your child’s therapist can better track their progress and determine what techniques they respond to best.
7. Be encouraging!
Children are more likely to engage with learning when they are met with positivity and appreciation instead of criticism. Know that it’s normal for your child to make mistakes or continue to struggle during speech therapy. Motivate them to keep trying with an encouraging attitude. Remind them that they’re doing the best and that that’s enough.
At the Center for Rising Minds, we’d love to help you and your family with your mental health care needs! Please reach out to us today to inquire about our services or join our waitlist.
