As a parent , we all want the best for our children . We do everything we can to make sure our children have every opportunity to succeed . Although we try our best , children may still need the help of a therapist to correct a delay in speech / language skills .
As a Speech- Language Pathologist , I often get asked by parents , “ How do I know if my child needs speech therapy ?” “ Won ’ t my child just grow out of it ?”
The following are helpful tips when considering if your child should be evaluated by a speech therapist .
By age two , see a speech therapist if : 1 . Your child does not name common objects seen within the everyday environment . ( cup , spoon , brush , etc .) 2 . Your child is not attempting to put two words together to convey a thought , “ Mama shoe .” “ Daddy cup .” 3 . You child has difficulties with following basic directions . ( ex . Get your shoes . Etc .) 4 . Your child uses pointing more than words to communicate .
By age three , see a speech therapist if : 1 . Your child can ’ t use sentences of up to four words during normal speech . 2 . People outside of the family can ’ t understand your child ’ s speech . 3 . Your child has difficulty with answering basic questions . 4 . Your child has difficulty with telling about experiences ( ex . Difficulty using words to tell on a sibling .)
By age four , see a speech therapist if : 1 . Your child is unable use prepositions when speaking ( ex , the ball is under the table . The cup is in the sink . Etc .) 2 . Your child ’ s speech is not understandable by strangers . 3 . Your child cannot follow directions of 2 steps or more ( Get your shoes and put them in the closet . Etc .)
As parents , we all LOVE our little ones . We know exactly what our child needs / wants and will give it to him without even needing to ask . This hinders that language learning process ! In order for speech skills to grow , they must be practiced every day through normal life experiences . Here are a few helpful hints to practice language skills : Age two : 1 . If your child has difficulty with speaking , place her favorite toys in a clear container . Place the container out of reach , but can still be seen by the child . For your child to get the toy , she must ASK by using WORDS . You can model the words and have your child repeat . 2 . Include your child in household routines . Talk about what you are doing . 3 . During snack time , give your child a choice . Hold up two different snacks . Your child can ask for his choice by pointing and naming the snack he chooses . 4 . Read picture books with your child . Name the pictures and ask simple questions , “ What sound does the cow make ?” 5 . Sing / recite nursery rhymes .
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