Better Hearing & Speech Month

May is Better Hearing and Speech Month (BHSM). Speech language pathologists use this month to raise awareness about communication disorders and the role SLPs play in the treatment of these disorders. This BHSM looks a little bit different as most SLPs have transitioned from in person therapy to tele therapy. While this transition has been difficult for the therapists, we acknowledge that it is equally (if not more) difficult for the families. During in person therapy sessions, parents typically take the roll as the observer. During tele therapy sessions, parents are now co facilitating or completely facilitating the session with direction from their SLP. We have complied a list of helpful tips and tricks for maximizing success during your child's speech language tele therapy sessions.

• Troubleshoot technical difficulties BEFORE the session begins. We don't want our children losing valuable treatment time with their therapist. Make sure your computer has a working camera and microphone. Practice logging into the tele therapy platform before the session. Test your internet connection and speed with an online bandwidth test.
• Find a quiet area with limited distractions for the session. Make this area their dedicated therapy spot. This will assist them with transitioning from other activities to their therapy session. Try to keep siblings and toys out of this area during therapy time.
• Set a timer before their session begins. Let them know when their session time is approaching. Use a visual timer and set this timer 15 minutes before they need to be seated and ready for their tele therapy session. Make sure to get potty breaks and snacks done before the session begins.
• Model flexibility. Tele therapy sessions will look different than in person sessions. Your child may not respond as well to tele therapy initially. As adults, we need to model flexibility and show our children we are open to the differences. After a session is finished, ask your child what they liked about the session. Tell them everything you liked about the session and what you are excited about for the next session. 
• Carryover. While tele therapy may be difficult at first, holding therapy sessions at home can help with generalization of skills. Your child now has the opportunity to practice skills at home vs. in an office setting. Talk to your therapist about activities you can implement between sessions to continue working on goals.
• Open and honest communication with your child's therapist. If you feel like something in the session isn't working, let the therapist know. If you have activity ideas or areas you need help with at home, let the therapist know! Tele therapy is new for all of us and we want to work together to provide your child with the best outcomes during this unprecedented time.