Speech and Language Therapy

Speech and language disorders are the most frequently occurring developmental concerns identified in children.

Speech and language therapy provides treatment of disorders which affect the production of sound, difficulty in understanding and organizing words in the process of communication, and the ability to swallow and eat.

Disorders of communication include:

Fluency disorders – difficulty with the flow of speech resulting in abnormal stoppages, repetitions of sound, or prolonged sounds and syllables

Articulation disorders – difficulty with producing sounds or saying words in an intelligible and age appropriate manner

Resonance/voice disorders – difficulty with pitch, volume, or quality of the voice

Oral feeding disorders – difficulty with drooling, swallowing, or eating

Disorders of Language include:

Receptive disorders – difficulty with understanding or processing language

Expressive disorders – difficulty with organizing words, seeking vocabulary, or using socially appropriate language

A child may need speech and language therapy when affected by one of the following:

• Cognitive or other developmental delays
• Weak oral muscles
• Chronic hoarseness
• Hearing impairment
• Birth defects such as cleft lip/cleft palate
• Respiratory problems
• Feeding and swallowing difficulty
• Motor planning problems
• Traumatic brain injury

Speech and language therapy is most effective when begun before age 5 years. However, treatment provided to older children is helpful and effective. For the most successful outcome, treatment should begin as soon as possible.

Parents play a vital role in their child’s speech and language therapy. Parents are able to reinforce and practice the lessons and exercises children learn in therapy, expedite the child’s progress, and enhance therapeutic outcomes. Children whose parents are committed and involved in the therapy process more readily achieve treatment goals.

It is important to remember that children with speech and language disorders face many challenges in their daily lives. Speech and language therapy requires much effort and time on the part of children and parents to remediate these disorders. Support and patience is needed from the family throughout the therapy process.

To schedule an appointment call 715 845-4900