We use words to communicate and express ourselves. And for children who have difficulties with speech and language, it can be incredibly challenging to share their wants, needs and experiences. From participating in the classroom to simply talking with their peers, kids with communication difficulties are often misunderstood – which can have a serious impact on their quality of life.
Speech therapy is designed to support children with a wide range of needs, helping them improve their ability to communicate with and understand those around them, organise their thoughts, and even get through mealtimes.
What speech therapy addresses
Speech therapy (also known as speech pathology) can help children overcome a variety of issues related to communication, voice, eating, and swallowing. These may include:
- Speech difficulties: Problems with articulation (how sounds are made) or tuning into the sounds of speech.
Voice difficulties: Managing changes with how the voice sounds, voice pitch and resonance.
- Fluency difficulties: For children who have difficulty putting words and sentences together in a fluent way (such as stuttering).
- Language difficulties: Difficulty understanding (receptive language) or using words (expressive language) to communicate thoughts and needs.
- Social communication difficulties: Challenges with using verbal and non-verbal communication effectively in social contexts, such as understanding social cues and responding appropriately.
- Feeding and swallowing difficulties: Speech therapy can also help with the mechanics of feeding, including chewing and swallowing safely.
- Cognitive-communication difficulties: Problems with organising thoughts, paying attention, remembering, and problem-solving.
On top of these broad areas of difficulty, the treatment of some diagnoses often involves speech therapy. These include autism spectrum disorder (ASD), neurodevelopmental disorders, literacy difficulties and specific learning disorders, Down syndrome, hearing impairments, and apraxia of speech. By working with a qualified speech therapist, children can address these issues early on and develop the skills they need to communicate and participate more effectively.
Common types of treatments and interventions
Speechies offer a broad range of treatments that can be adapted to meet individual needs.
– Articulation and phonology therapy: Helping children correctly pronounce sounds. Exercises may involve repeated practice tuning in to and saying specific sounds or words.
– Language intervention: Targets comprehension and use of language. This could include narrative construction, listening and understanding, or expanding vocabulary.
– Social skills training: Children with social communication difficulties might participate in role-playing exercises to practice turn-taking, listening, and responding appropriately during conversations.
Speech therapy FAQ
– What should I expect in a speech therapy session?
Speech therapy sessions typically involve interactive activities, exercises, and play designed to improve communication skills. Therapy is designed to be engaging, and therapists may use picture boards, flashcards, toys or apps to encourage communication and reinforce language skills.
– How long does speech therapy take?
There’s no one answer – it will depend on the person’s communication profile and the goals set by the therapist, parent, and child. Some children may need therapy for a few months, while others may continue for several years or for life. Early intervention alongside consistent participation and practice can significantly impact the effectiveness of therapy.
– Can speech therapy help with non-verbal children?
Yes, speech therapists can work with non-verbal children to help them communicate using alternative methods, such as sign language, communication devices, or picture boards. The goal is to help your child express their needs and thoughts in a way that works best for them.
– Does my child need a speech therapist?
Broadly, children may benefit from seeing a speech therapist if they are having trouble understanding others or communicating their ideas, if they have speech that is difficult to understand for their age, or trouble feeding and swallowing.
How LifeLift supports NDIS candidates
As a registered NDIS provider, LifeLift offers speech therapy services designed to improve the communication abilities of children living with disabilities.
Our therapists develop individualised treatment plans based on each child’s unique needs. We work closely with families, schools, and other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to therapy. With a focus on compassion and empowerment, LifeLift is dedicated to helping your child reach their full potential.
For more information on our NDIS speech therapy services, contact our friendly team today.
