Although my child is different from so many others, strategies can be tailored to the specific needs of the child. Small, consistent effort at home and in the community can make a big difference. Here are some strategies for parents to help ensure a language-rich environment for their child.
Collaborate with Therapists
The child’s speech therapist is the expert on expressive and receptive language (what the child says and understands). It is important to understand the child’s specific speech and language goals. Regular meetings for parents to discuss data with the speech therapist are always encouraged to see how their child has been growing and what skills have been mastered. During these meetings, the parents should review their child’s goals, see if the speech therapist can recommend exercises at home, and ask for feedback. With parents and the therapists both using the same concepts and language in different settings, the child will learn to generalize and retain information to keep with them in their daily life. If the therapist does provide specific examples, parents should make times each day to practice.
Create a Supportive and Low-Pressure Environment
As parents go about their day, they should narrate their activities. That actually tells the children about the home and routines, helping the children label words and activities in their life. During the day, parents finding time to read a book with their children, especially interactive books, can be a fun way to incorporate language. Parents should ask questions while reading, point out colors, shapes, and animals, while reading with their children. When out in the community, if the child says “dog,” the parents should use some adjectives to describe the dog, like, “Yes, look at that big, brown, furry dog!” This not only acknowledges the child’s speech, but adds on some more descriptive language to learn. It is important to encourage communication without forcing speech, because pressure can increase anxiety and resistance. Responding positively to any communication attempt, even if it is not perfect, is important.
Make Speech Practice Fun
Families should find some games that encourage speech, like “I Spy,” “Spot It,” a rhyming game, or storytelling game. Games that have colors and actions are great for cooperative play and descriptive language. Having toys on hand that promote language is also beneficial. Dolls can be great for imaginative play, modeling social interactions, and cooperative play. Toy kitchens are great for learning how to use household tools and independent skills. Songs at home and in the car are beneficial ways to continue speech. Singing songs and nursery rhymes are strong ways to help with a child’s rhythm and articulation.
Focus on The Child’s Preferred Communication Methods
Communication is extremely important. For some children with limited speech, it takes a different way to listen to determine what these children have to say. Facial expressions and gestures can be helpful when speech is limited. If verbal communication is difficult for the child, alternative methods like sign language, picture exchange methods (PECS) or AAC devices can be helpful. No matter how the child communicates, all forms of communication: verbal words, gestures, pointing, or assistive technology use should be celebrated and encouraged.
Incorporate Speech into Daily Life
Each part of the day is a new opportunity to practice speech language skills. During mealtime, talk about what is on the plate. Talk about colors, textures, smells and tastes. During playtime, use pretend play to encourage conversations. During an evening bath, name body parts, sing bath time songs, and give simple directions. Using favorite toys and activities can also encourage speech. For example, when blowing bubbles (say “pop,” “blow,” etc.) or when doing puzzles (request pieces).
A Final Reminder
Speech development can be slower for children with special needs, and that is okay. Any and every attempt at communication (whether it be a sound, a gesture, a word, or the use of an AAC device) is worthy of praise. It is also important to remember to keep expectations realistic rather than focusing on perfect speech. Parents are their child’s most important speech partner, but it can be daunting to do this alone. Parents should reach out to their child’s speech therapist, a support group, or another special needs parent to see what has worked for them. Speech is not a one-size-fits-all therapy. Progress may look different, but each step forward on the path to language learning is cause for celebration.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Christina Kreml is a dedicated special education teacher with two advanced degrees and a passion for supporting children with disabilities. As a parent to a special needs daughter, Christina brings both professional expertise and personal experience into her advocacy work. She is committed to empowering families, championing the rights of children with disabilities, and helping parents navigate the journey of raising exceptional children.
Read the article here.