Being a parent can be hard. From answering questions, “Mom, why is a butterfly called a butterfly?” to wiping up bodily fluids at 2am… it’s tricky navigating the endless challenges.
As I speak to parents about speech (specifically, communication), I try to emphasize the need for communicating on a daily bases. You and I communicate daily. I know that’s a total DUH. But, we use communication to request, comment, protest, question, share information, gain clarity, and for social connection.
Long story short… communication happens EVERY DAY and ALL AROUND us.
Our children need and desire to communicate with others too! But sometimes . . . it’s challenging for them. You may notice frustration or tears. They may grab your arm and drag you to their desired activity.
But is that typical? Does your child need help accessing communication?? How do we know??
These are all fantastic questions! And questions that I’ve spoken with parents before.
First, let’s talk about speech therapy and what EXACTLY that means. And what a speech therapist actually does.
A speech therapist is an individual that helps support children in their communication. This includes the following areas:
- Speech (articulation). This is how a child says his words. For example, “wabbit” instead of rabbit.
- Language. This is, on the simplest terms, the words the child uses. Examples of this would be expressive language (verbal, gestures, AAC) or receptive language (following directions, comprehension, etc). Language also addresses grammar and vocabulary.
- Swallowing. This addresses the chewing and swallowing mechanism.
- Fluency. We help individuals who stutter.
- Voice and Resonance. This addresses quality, pitch, and loudness of the voice.
- Pragmatics. This involves the social rules of communication and language.
- Hearing. Speech therapists can help individuals with hearing loss gain more language.
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). We help individuals have challenges with natural speech.
- Cognitive Communication. This addresses attention, memory, executive functioning, and problem solving.
When I first learned that a speech therapist didn’t just teach kids how to talk . . . I was so confused. Why are they called speech therapist???
It’s hard to navigate all the gray areas and technical jargon. Especially if you aren’t sure if your child is typical or not.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) recommends different communication activity ideas, targeting different ages. Check out these blog posts below addressing each age group.
Birth to 3 Months
4-6 Months
7-12 Months
1-2 years
2-3 years
3-4 years
4-5 years
Each child is unique and will develop differently! If your child does not meet milestones, consult a speech language pathologist with your concerns.
Communication Milestones:
As you’re navigating the challenges of parenthood, know that you are not alone. There are plenty of people who are willing to walk alongside you in your journey. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s speech or language development, consult a speech therapist near you!
Wildly,
Andrea
P.s. If you want some ideas on helping develop your toddler’s vocabulary, check out Vocabulary Development for Toddlers!
