In this second part of our series, we asked our expert Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) what they wish parents knew? The question was broad, it could be what they wish parents knew about speech therapy, about their child’s disorder or pretty much about anything. Even with that said, the responses we got have some pretty clear themes.
The first is that your SLP is your advocate, they are on your side. They are part of the team (that includes the parents) to make sure your child’s needs are being met.
The second is that you, the parent, are VERY important in the process. Your child spends much of their time with you. Your SLP is not trying to make extra work for you, but they do need you to practice and support the skills and techniques they are using with your child, to help your child be their best.
Here are some of the replies we got…
I make sure parents know that I am on their team. Closing the gap in language takes time and is a team effort! I also tell parents that they will always be their child’s BEST therapist. They are encouraged to take recommendations home and implement them with their children. Children will learn best from their parents during meaningful interactions and play.
Kristin Gehret, MA CCC-SLP
That the biggest misnomer of the millenia is calling me a Speech Therapist. Most of what I do in this role is centered around language and social interaction. I work in a building that houses the junior high, high school, and post-vocational program for our district. I have three students on my caseload of 75 who work on “speech” goals. My focus ranges from teaching explicit skills to channeling their strengths to implement compensatory strategies for their academic success. That success often hinges upon their social-emotional capabilities and their communication as a whole. Much of what we do hits the projects and assignments due in their classes – otherwise, missing class to come to speech isn’t going to be beneficial for them. As for the post-vocational groups, we are heavy into utilizing appropriate communication in workplace and community-based settings.
Lynette Dolente, SLP
Honestly, an awareness of what their insurance can provide toward therapy, local services available (through ESC, community providers, etc) and family resources would be delightful. Many of our families come to us with not one shred of information about their child’s needs and potential resources, despite being on social media.
Betsy Suzor, MA CCC-SLP
It’s a partnership! I see my role as just as much about engaging and teaching a child as educating and teaching their caregiver. One hour a week of speech is not enough. I need the parents to be ready to take the strategies home to see the most success. Caroline Woeber, MA, CCC-SLP
Progress is not made in the treatment room. Therapy is a process that requires a team approach. Parents are the ones who have the biggest impact on their child’s progress. Parents should seek a therapist who will provide parent coaching and homework for generalization. Without a team effort, progress is much slower.
Heather Amann, SLP and Ashley Bonkofsky, SLP
That each day will get easier. That in the beginning there is a lot of fear or concern for your child’s development and overall well being. Once you start the therapy process, you know there is a roadmap and plan so that your child is on their way to being the best they can be.
Mindy Kirschner, MA CCC/SLP
Director, Speak Your Mind, LLC
