Hearing that your child may benefit from speech therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes from a teacher. But this feedback is actually a positive step. Teachers spend a lot of time observing how children communicate and participate in the classroom, so when they raise a concern, it’s because they want to support your child’s success.
Here’s what to do next to ensure your child gets the help they need.
Start With a Conversation
Ask your child’s teacher:
- What specifically concerns you? (e.g., speech sounds, stuttering, following instructions, their ability to express themselves, reading or spelling skills)
- When does the difficulty occur most often? (e.g., group tasks, reading aloud, making friends)
- How is it impacting their learning or confidence?
These details will be valuable for a speech pathologist later.
Obtain Classroom Insights
Teachers can provide helpful background such as:
- Work samples
- Reports or checklists
- Notes on communication in different settings (e.g., group time vs. one-on-one)
This collaboration ensures everyone is working toward the same goals, and you can take these documents to your speech pathology assessment.
Book a Speech Pathology Assessment
A qualified speech pathologist can complete a comprehensive assessment that looks at:
- Speech clarity and sound production
- Speech fluency
- Understanding and using language
- Social communication skills
- Literacy development (reading, spelling, reading comprehension and written expression in texts)
This helps identify your child’s strengths and any areas needing support and forms the basis of a tailored therapy plan.
Begin Speech Therapy if it’s needed
Speech therapy shouldn’t feel like a test. It should be fun, engaging and confidence-building. Activities may include:
- Games
- Storytelling
- Sound play
- Social communication practice
- Literacy strategies
Children should enjoy their sessions and feel proud as their skills grow! Your speech pathologist will also provide you with strategies for building your child’s skills at home, and often specific homework tasks to continue working on your child’s goals throughout the week.
You’re Doing the Right Thing
Seeking answers early is one of the best ways to support your child’s communication, confidence and learning. You don’t have to navigate this alone: speech pathologists like me are here to help!
Ready to take the next step?
Book an assessment with me today! I support children in my clinic and in a number of local schools, helping them thrive in school and beyond.
