1. A Right Speech Therapist –
Make sure you check the credentials of speech therapists before you proceed. Speech therapists in India have completed a minimum of 4 years of degree courses- bachelor’s of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology; and additional master’s degrees & certifications. They are registered with the Rehabilitation Council of India with an A prefix.
2. Involve Yourself in Sessions-
Feel free to ask why, and how various activities are done and understand how you can carry forward the same at home. Practice makes it perfect. Ensure that you do not disturb the flow of therapy sessions.
3. Practice in Daily Life –
Practice explained strategies in day-to-day activities to make generalization easier and smoother. It is important to take time and work on the activities suggested by a therapist, but at the same time, your day-to-day activities like vegetable cleaning, grocery shopping, clothes drying and folding, and setting up a dining table also carry opportunities to model and expand.
4. Model Correct Speech Without Expectations –
Remember, your job is to model, model, and model. Don’t force the child to repeat after you. Once they are forced to say something, they might just lose interest in communicating. Rather, reward them for their small efforts.
5. Waiting –
Yes, you read it. Waiting, observing a child’s communication cues, and giving him/her enough time before providing cues are important. It not only reduces anxiety but also gives them enough time to think and process information.
6. Discuss–
Discuss your child’s progress with the therapist, share observations from home, and work together to set realistic goals.