Hello my name is Adrienne and I am a Speech-Language Pathologist.  I am the Clinical Director of SpeechBuilders, LLC and author of the book “30 Days to Get Your Toddler Talking.”  Why am I telling you this?  I am saying all of this because I want everyone that I meet, everyone who reads everything that I write in a book, on a blog or on social media that:

I love Speech Therapy!

I love the field, I love other speech therapists,

I love that 6 months of consistent therapy can make a huge difference in a child’s life.

I love that after working with a speech therapist-a child that once never said a word can talk your head off.

I love that after working with a speech therapist a child who never said the word mama or dada can now communicate with the people that gave them life.

But as much as I love Speech therapy-but unless you do these four things-you and your child may not be getting the most out of your therapy session:

1. Are you consistent in attendance?
   Over the years I have noticed that insurance companies and schools are beginning to reduce the amount of actual therapy time that is being given to patients/students.  This is probably due to the sheer number of kids that need therapy.   It is important that children come to therapy sessions whether it be in a clinic like ours or at school. Consistency is vital to therapy success.  So even if your child protests, or you are feeling tired-its so important to be consistent. 
   
2. Do you expect the therapist to do all the work?
   I know that it is tempting to leave your child in a session while you take a break, cook dinner (if the session is virtual) or run an errand but when you are in the room-parents and caregivers can get an honest look at what the therapist is doing in the session and they can carry it over at home.
   
3. Do you practice at home? 
   I know life can get hectic at home especially now that school is back in session but carryover/practice at home is very important. The reality is as therapists we get anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours per week with your child.  That is not enough.  At home practice even as little as 5 minutes every day really maximizes progress!  Plus, it shows your child that therapy is important to you too!
   
4. Do you believe your child needs therapy?
   Perhaps your doctor or a teacher recommended therapy.  Maybe your spouse suggested it.  But if you as a parent or caregiver do not believe that therapy is necessary-chances are you will not do the first 3 steps I previously discussed.  Out most successful parents believe and support the therapy process.  If you don’t trust your child’s therapist or the process-find a company/therapist that you trust and that fits your needs.  In the end you will be glad you made a change (even though it may be a hassle).
   

The goal of therapy is to get your child talking, communicating, and living the best life they can.  So maximize your child’s therapy sessions to get the best results.  You may not get it perfect (no one will) but it is the effort that is so beneficial.