Getting Help for Your Child’s Speech Delays: How and When
When your child is experiencing speech delays, searching for help can be overwhelming, especially if you are not sure what sort of help is available to you. For more comprehensive assistance, reaching out to professionals is crucial. In this blog post, we will explore how and when to seek help for your child's speech delay. We'll discuss key avenues such as Early Intervention programs, the public school system, outpatient therapy, and private therapy. By understanding these options, you can make informed decisions and provide your child with the support they need.
Early Intervention and the Public School System
Depending on your child's age, two reliable avenues for seeking help are Early Intervention programs and the public school system.
Early Intervention programs, known by different names in different states, such as the Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program or Texas' Early Childhood Intervention Services, offer services to children aged 0-3. These programs provide support not only for speech therapy but also for occupational therapy, physical therapy, and developmental skills. Reach out to your state's Early Intervention program to access these valuable resources tailored to your child's age group.
As your child approaches their third birthday and transitions to preschool, the local school district assumes responsibility for their developmental needs. At this point, the school system offers services to address your child's speech and language requirements within an educational context. This transition ensures a seamless continuation of support and access to specialized professionals trained in speech therapy.
*Note: The process for this school evaluation and transition can take upwards of a few months. For example, in NJ, the school district has up to 90 days to complete the process. This is something to keep in mind as you prepare for your little one’s third birthday.
To learn more about early intervention, click HERE!
Outpatient and Private Therapy
If you are looking for additional therapy options, outpatient therapy, and private therapy can also be helpful resources. Outpatient programs, typically available at local hospitals or medical centers, offer comprehensive therapy services. However, it's important to note that these programs may have longer wait times for evaluations. If time is a crucial factor for your child's development, private therapy might be a more accessible and timely option.
Private therapy involves working with a licensed therapist at a private practice. If you are looking to explore this option, reaching out to your local community mom groups is a perfect way to find a therapist others have had success with. This is a great resource for support as well! Having a connection with other parents who have gone through this process will only strengthen your knowledge and ease your worries. Having insight from other moms is important because it serves as a reminder that you are not alone on this journey!
Pairing With Their Teachers/Therapists
Whether your child is receiving help from their school program, or a privately funded therapist, it's important to remember that you are their biggest advocate. Pairing up and becoming as involved with your child’s program as they allow is only going to strengthen your understanding of your child’s journey. While your child’s teachers and aids are ultimately the ones with the expertise in this matter, your help and encouragement will further empower your child in their speech development adventure.
Pairing with their teachers to continue the learning they are receiving at school or with their therapist at home creates a seamless and consistent space of communication development for your little ones. It may feel like you aren’t doing enough, but you are your child’s safe place. Being a continuation of what they are learning in the classroom is a vital contribution to their development.
Remember that every child's journey is unique, and finding the right support may involve exploring multiple avenues. It's crucial to maintain open communication with therapists, educators, and other parents, as their insights and experiences can provide valuable guidance and reassurance.
By taking the initiative to seek help and collaborate with professionals, you are providing your child with the best opportunity to overcome their speech delay and thrive in their communication skills. “Mondy’s Mission: Under The Sea” is a great tool parents can use to pursue the continuation of what your child is learning with their teachers/therapists. To purchase your copy of Mondy’s Mission click HERE!
Key Takeaways
Seeking help for your child's speech delay is a proactive step toward supporting their communication development. Mondy's Mission books and activity workbooks can complement the assistance provided by professionals, but reaching out to specialized services is essential for comprehensive support.
Early Intervention programs and the public school system offer invaluable resources for children aged 0-3 and those transitioning to preschool, respectively. These programs provide tailored services, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and developmental skills support. By contacting your state's Early Intervention program or local school district, you can access the necessary resources and professionals trained in addressing speech delays.
In addition, outpatient therapy and private therapy offer alternative options for families seeking specialized and individualized support. Outpatient programs and private practices can provide timely interventions and personalized therapy sessions to address your child's specific needs.
