Preparing for the New School Year: Speech and Language Tips for Parents and Students
As summer winds down and the new school year approaches, it's the perfect time to focus on preparing your child for a successful year ahead. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or heading into their senior year, supporting their speech and language development can play a crucial role in their academic and social success. Here are some tips and insights to help you get started.
Tips for Supporting Speech and Language Development Over the Summer
Even though it’s midsummer, it's important to keep your child's speech and language skills sharp. Here are some fun and easy activities to do just that:
Reading Together: Spend time reading books that interest your child. Discuss the story, ask questions, and encourage your child to predict what will happen next. Reading Rockets offers great resources and booklists.
Storytelling Games: Create stories together using prompts or pictures. This can help build vocabulary and narrative skills. Check out Storybird for inspiration.
Play-Based Learning: Engage in games that require following directions, turn-taking, and conversation. Board games, card games, and interactive apps can be great tools. Speech and Language Kids has a list of recommended games and activities.
Signs That Your Child May Need Speech Therapy
Understanding the developmental milestones for speech and language can help you identify if your child might benefit from speech therapy. Here are some signs to watch for in different age groups:
Preschoolers: Difficulty being understood by others, limited vocabulary for their age, or struggles with forming sentences.
School-Aged Children: Persistent issues with reading and writing, trouble following directions, or difficulty expressing ideas clearly.
Teens: Challenges with social communication, trouble organizing thoughts for speaking or writing, or anxiety about speaking.
If you notice any of these concerns, it might be time to consult a speech-language pathologist for some input. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) provides more detailed information on speech and language milestones.
How Speech Therapy Can Help Your Child Succeed in School
Speech therapy can provide targeted support to help your child overcome communication challenges and thrive academically. Here's how:
Improved Communication Skills: Therapy can help children articulate sounds correctly, expand their vocabulary, and use language more effectively.
Enhanced Social Skills: Learning to navigate social interactions and build relationships can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
Academic Support: Speech-language pathologists can work on skills that directly impact academic performance, such as reading comprehension, writing, and listening skills.
Success stories from our practice highlight the positive impact speech therapy can have. For instance, one of our young clients significantly improved her reading skills and gained confidence in participating in class discussions.
Preparing Your Child for the First Day of School
The first day of school can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here are some strategies to help your child feel prepared and confident:
Practice Routines: Establish a consistent bedtime and morning routine to help your child adjust to the school schedule. HealthyChildren.org offers tips for creating effective routines.
Visit the School: If possible, take a tour of the school, find your child’s classroom, and meet the teacher.
Role-Play Scenarios: Practice common school scenarios, such as asking the teacher for help or introducing themselves to classmates.
Back-to-School Checklist for Children with Speech and Language Needs
Having a plan in place can make the transition back to school smoother for children with speech and language needs. Here’s a checklist to help you get organized:
Communicate with Teachers: Share information about your child's speech and language goals, any accommodations they need, and successful strategies used in therapy. Understood.org has resources for communicating with educators.
Gather Resources: Make sure your child has any necessary tools, such as visual schedules, communication devices, or other adaptive equipment to help them succeed.
Review the IEP or 504 Plan: Ensure that your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan is up-to-date and that you understand the supports and services provided. Wrightslaw is a great resource for understanding these plans.
How to Advocate for Your Child’s Speech and Language Needs at School
Advocating for your child is crucial to ensuring they receive the support they need. Here are some tips:
Build a Relationship with Teachers: Regular communication with teachers and school staff can help you stay informed about your child's progress and any challenges they face.
Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations related to special education services, including IEPs and 504 Plans. The Center for Parent Information and Resources provides comprehensive guides.
Be Proactive: Attend school meetings, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to request additional evaluations or services if needed.
Ask for Help: Ask your team for help advocating! We’re all here to help support you in the therapy room as well as in your child’s other environments. Don’t be afraid to ask for input from the therapy professionals working with your child, that’s what we’re here for!