Parents are not the only ones who appreciate online speech therapy. Many children, from toddlers through young adults, prefer meeting with their speech therapist in a familiar, comfortable environment. Children growing up today are digital natives, so they often adapt quickly to the interactive online games and activities speech therapists use to reinforce important lessons.
Every child has a distinct learning style, preferences, quirks, and attention span. Preparing your child before each speech therapy appointment can help them get more from the session. We have previously covered the benefits of online speech therapy . Here, we will focus on how to set your child up for success before each appointment.
How to find an online speech therapist
Once you decide to pursue online speech therapy, the first step is finding a certified speech therapist who specializes in your child’s area of need. Many families, however, want more than a therapist. They want a trusted partner who can build a strong relationship with them and is fully committed to helping their child make progress toward their communication goals.
Online speech therapy also involves another consideration: the therapist’s experience providing teletherapy. Delivering speech therapy online is not necessarily harder than providing it on-site or in person, but it is different. For example, experienced online speech therapists know both how to deliver therapy and how to keep younger children engaged virtually. They use a range of techniques and strategies to hold children’s attention and create a fun, engaging learning environment. They also know how to adapt children’s interests for an online setting, including objects and toys the children already use at home.
In short, online speech therapists bring extensive experience and established best practices to each session. Children, in turn, may be more engaged, more willing to participate, and able to have more productive sessions.
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4 ways to prepare for a speech therapy session
Use this short checklist before each session to help create the best possible learning experience for your child:
1. Remove distractions
Every minute with your speech therapist is valuable, so reduce disturbances that could interrupt the session. Close the windows to block sounds from fire trucks, or ice cream trucks, turn off the TV, and move pets out of the room. Also close any other programs running on the computer.
To make the transition easier, give your child a few reminders before the session begins that it is almost time for speech therapy.
2. Get your computer ready
Computer problems can quickly slow down an online speech therapy session. Check that your internet is working, your computer or tablet is charged, and your camera and microphone are turned on. Position the camera so your child’s face is easy to see.
You also need access to the link you will use to join the video chat with your speech therapist. If you frequently misplace it, bookmark the link for easy access. Join a few minutes early so you are ready as soon as your therapist arrives.
3. Find comfortable seating
A comfortable, enjoyable workspace can help children stay focused during the session. Once you find a setup that works well for your child, we recommend using the same learning area each time. Keep in mind that therapy may take place over video, but children will not necessarily remain seated for the entire session. Leave enough room for your child to move around if needed.
4. Tell your speech therapist what your child loves
Speech therapists often include things a child loves, such as favorite toys, in language-building activities. If your child has a beloved stuffed dinosaur, a set of building blocks, or a game they enjoy, tell your speech therapist about it.
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Attend speech therapy with your child
One of the greatest advantages of receiving speech therapy online rather than in a traditional setting, such as a school or clinic, is the opportunity to be more involved in your child’s care. During online therapy, you can sit beside your child, learn directly from the speech therapist, and build stronger relationships.
This means your child is not the only person who should come to each appointment with an open mind and a willingness to learn. You should, too. Your speech therapist will share strategies, cues, and exercises you can use at home to work speech and language practice into your child’s daily routines.
You also spend more time with your child than anyone else does. Online speech therapy allows you to maintain an open line of communication with the therapist and provide regular updates. Has your child recently made progress, said a new word, pronounced a sound correctly, or faced a new challenge? Share it. All of this information can guide the speech therapist’s treatment plan and help them support your child in reaching their communication goals.