When we think of Speech Pathology, we often think of helping children say their ‘r’s or ‘s’s correctly. While clear speech is a big part of what we do, it is actually just one piece of a much larger puzzle. At My Therapy Space, we look at the ‘whole child’—helping them not just to speak, but to connect, understand, and participate in the world around them.
What Do We Actually Do?
A Paediatric Speech Pathologist (SP) works on the many different ways we communicate and interact with the world. This includes:
- Language Skills: Helping children understand what others are saying (receptive language) and helping them find the right words to express their own ideas (expressive language).
- Functional Language: Using Augmentative or Alternative Communication to support children to get their message across with Key Word Signs, pictures, gestures, symbols or high tech communication devices.
- Social Communication: Teaching the “unwritten rules” of interaction, understanding body language, staying on topic, and knowing how to change how we speak depending on who we are talking to.
- Speech Clarity: Working on the physical production of sounds so that children can be clearly understood by their family, teachers, and peers.
- Literacy and Pre-reading: Supporting the building blocks of reading and writing, such as recognizing sounds in words and understanding story structures.
- Fluency and Voice: Helping children who stutter to speak more smoothly or helping those with voice disorders use their voice safely.
- Feeding and Swallowing: Ensuring children can eat and drink safely, which is a vital part of their overall development and sensory experience.
Why the “Whole Child” Approach Matters
Communication isn’t just about saying words; it’s about connection. When a child struggles to communicate, it can impact their confidence, their ability to make friends, and their success at school.
By looking beyond just speech sounds, we help children develop the “total package” of communication. This holistic approach ensures that they don’t just speak, but that they can truly share their personality and build meaningful relationships with the people around them.
How Can You Support Your Child’s Communication?
You are your child’s best advocate and teacher. Here are a few ways to support their communication journey at home:
- Follow your child’s lead: We all communicate more when we are doing the things we enjoy
- Model without expectation: Comment on your play without expecting your child to copy words or repeat what you have to say. This will decrease pressure to get the words out!
- Be a Narrator: Talk about what you are doing throughout the day. “Look, I found the green apples. Let’s put three in the bag?” or “We’re putting on your blue jumper because it’s cold outside today!”
- Value All Communication: Honor all communication including gestures, pointing, or facial expressions, signing, words, or symbols to tell you something—not just when they use words.
- Read Together: Books are a goldmine for new vocabulary and discussing how characters might be feeling.
At My Therapy Space, we are dedicated to helping every child find their unique voice and the tools they need to navigate the world. Communication is a journey, and we are here to walk it with you.
If you’re curious about how a Speech Pathologist can support your child’s specific needs, our team at My Therapy Space is ready to chat. Reach out today!