How does virtual speech therapy work?
In this video, Clinical Director Ashley Moates walks you through what you can expect in virtual speech therapy.
What is virtual speech therapy, and how does it work?
Virtual speech therapy, also known as teletherapy, is a convenient and flexible option for many families, and research shows it works just as well as in-person therapy. It allows parents to be actively involved in their child's therapy sessions, enhancing their child's progress. At TeamUp Therapy, sessions are individualized, incorporating play and interactive activities tailored to each child’s interests and goals.
What if my child can’t sit still? How will he sit in front of the screen?
In this video, Clinical Director Ashley Moates explains how virtual speech therapy is effective EVEN IF your child does not like to sit still.
It’s natural to worry about your child’s ability to stay focused during online sessions. However, online speech therapy is designed to be dynamic and interactive, going beyond just sitting and looking at a screen. Here are some of the strategies we use to keep your child engaged:
Interactive Play: Play is a fundamental part of our therapy sessions, regardless of age. Activities might include stacking blocks with a toddler, creating pretend Play-Doh food with a preschooler, or playing an online game with a school-age child. Play is not just a break from work; it's an essential method for children to learn and develop communication skills.
Movement Breaks: Incorporating movement into sessions helps children stay regulated and focused. Therapists might include activities like singing songs with movements, creating obstacle courses, or playing I Spy games. Movement breaks can be tailored to your child’s preferences, ensuring they remain engaged and motivated.
Parent-Guided Activities: Our therapists guide parents on how to interact with their child during sessions. This involvement makes the experience more dynamic and supports the child’s learning. Parents might be asked to have a few simple toys or activities on hand, such as bubbles, a ball, toy cars, crayons, or a favorite book, to facilitate engagement.
The Role of Play in Speech Therapy
Play is crucial in speech therapy as it helps children stay motivated and makes therapy feel less like work. For younger children, play might involve stacking blocks, making pretend food, or playing simple games. For older children, it might include more complex games or activities that require movement and creativity. Play helps children practice therapy goals in a natural and enjoyable way, making it easier to integrate new skills into their daily lives. Developing good play skills is also beneficial for overall communication growth and development.
The Magic Ingredient: YOU
Parent involvement, often referred to as parent coaching, is a key component of successful speech therapy. When parents actively participate in sessions and practice strategies at home, children tend to make faster and more significant progress. Our therapists provide coaching to caregivers, equipping them with tools and techniques to support their child’s communication growth. This might include modeling how to use certain words during play, guiding interactions, or offering tips on integrating therapy into daily routines. The more practice a child gets at home, the quicker they achieve their therapy goals.
What does a typical speech teletherapy visit look like?
Trick question - there is no “typical” speech therapy visit! At TeamUp Therapy, we tailor each session to fit your child's unique needs and goals.
However, for an example, imagine a session with a 2-year-old who is very active and has a short attention span. The therapist might start by allowing the child some time to get their wiggles out while chatting with the parent. This initial interaction helps set a comfortable tone for the session. The therapist then incorporates activities the child enjoys, such as dancing to music or coloring. For instance, the therapist might use the child’s interest in music to practice words like “more” or “on.” The parent plays a crucial role by turning the music on and off based on the child’s requests, reinforcing the use of specific words. As the session progresses, the therapist may introduce new activities, like offering choices between coloring or reading a book, to keep the child engaged. This approach ensures that therapy is both effective and enjoyable, following the child’s lead and adapting to their needs and interests.
