When kids are learning a new speech sound, it’s easy to think the answer is just more drilling – say it again, try it again, repeat it 10 more times. But RSI Pediatric Speech Therapists (SLPs) know that progress doesn’t come from repetition by itself. What really helps kids find success is the type of feedback they get combined with consistent practice.
When an SLP says, “That /f/ sounded really clear, you bit your lip just the right amount,” it’s not just a creative compliment. The specific feedback helps the child to notice the difference between when a sound feels right and when it doesn’t, and what to pay attention to on the next try.
Kids in articulation therapy won’t just hear “right” or “wrong” from their therapist, they’ll hear small, specific comments that connect to whatever skill they’re working on that day. Those comments keep things positive, keep frustration down, and help the child repeat what worked.
As children get more consistent, therapists naturally pull back on how much feedback they give. The goal is to help kids become more independent and start catching their own good sounds.
“Working together with your child’s speech therapist on the specific cues they are using in therapy sessions will help give you the tools to more effectively practice and generalize your child’s speech sounds at home,” said Liz Furness, one of RSI’s talented Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologists. “Remember, part of articulation therapy is helping our kids to establish new and correct motor plans for their speech error sounds. When parents and speech therapists work together as a team, we can give our kids the specific feedback and practice they need to increase their speaking confidence and achieve their speech sound goals.”
Speech therapy sessions may seem low-key from the outside, but there’s a lot of intention behind how practice and feedback work together. Those small moments are often what help a new sound finally click.
If you’re unsure about if your child needs speech therapy or not you’re always welcome to schedule a free screening with one of our amazing SLPs. Text or call us today!
Rexburg: (208)359-9570 Rigby: (208)228-0625 Ashton:(208)652-7963
Signs occupational therapy might be needed