Questions about Speech Therapy? Read our FAQs.

Does My Child Need Speech Therapy?

The Speech Language Therapist or Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) helps children to increase their communication skills. Your SLP assists families with children who show significant language delay, hearing loss, need help with receptive language, or who are having difficulty producing speech sounds. A speech therapist may also work with children who have oral-motor or feeding issues.  They can help with the coordination of breathing, chewing, and swallowing.  Speech therapists can also assist in the transition from tube-feedings to oral feedings.

Speech Therapy for Children from 0-3 Years Old

At TEIS, our focus is on early intervention for children from 0-3 years old.  Speech therapy is about more than words, involving the mechanical components of respiration, articulation, resonance, and voice. Your Speech Language Therapist is familiar with the relationship between play and language development, as well as techniques to stimulate language development. Your SLP is there to support you as a parent too, so that you can better help your child participate in all the activities and routines of daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions about Speech Therapy for Children

1How long will my child need therapy? How long before they talk?
Every child is different. Your child will continue to receive services as long as your therapist feels services are appropriate. Each child's plan remains current for an entire year with opportunity to make changes to the frequency and goals. Having open conversations with your child's therapist about progress will give you the best idea about how long your child may need services.
2Why is my child's language delayed?
There is not a clear answer to this question. Research does not support any specific reason for kids to have language delays. There are other diagnoses that can impact language development making an expressive language delay a secondary diagnosis. It is important for parents to understand that it is nothing to blame themselves for. With guidance from your therapist you will learn ways to encourage his/her language development.
3Does my child have autism?
As a speech therapist, we do not diagnose children with Autism. If you have concerns, please talk to your child’s therapist about what you are seeing with your child. Many children who have language delays do NOT have Autism. However, it is important to have an open conversation with a therapist who knows your child.
4What did we do wrong?
NOTHING! Most parents feel guilty when their child has a delay. Please know that by seeking services for your child you are now providing them with the help that he/she needs. Together, you will work to encourage your child to communicate with you and your family.