Parents often wonder how they can support their child’s speech and language development between therapy sessions. The good news is that practicing at home doesn’t have to feel like another therapy appointment.
RSI Speech-Language Pathologist Cara Butler, MS, CCC-SLP, recommends using everyday moments when you already have your child’s attention:
“Take advantage of times when you have your child’s undivided attention to reinforce and practice what they are working on during their speech therapy sessions. The car, for example, is a great place to model 5 high frequency target words. Even if your child isn’t willing or able to say them back to you it provides good auditory bombardment.”
How Can Parents Support Speech Therapy at Home?
Simple, consistent practice can help reinforce the skills your child is working on with their speech-language pathologist. Parents can:
- Use everyday routines: Practice during car rides, mealtimes, bath time, getting dressed, or play.
- Model target words: Say words clearly and naturally without requiring your child to repeat them every time.
- Keep practice manageable: A few focused minutes throughout the day can be easier to incorporate than a long practice session.
- Follow your child’s therapy goals: Ask your child’s speech-language pathologist which sounds, words, or language skills are most helpful to practice at home.
- Keep communication positive: Give your child opportunities to hear and use language without turning every interaction into a test.
Home practice works best when it supports what your child is already learning in pediatric speech therapy. Your child’s speech-language pathologist can recommend strategies based on their individual communication needs and goals.
If you have questions about your child’s speech or language development, contact Rehab Specialists of Idaho to learn more about pediatric speech therapy services and whether a screening or evaluation may be appropriate.