Speech-Language Services

Speech and language services are an integral part of the overall educational program. The role of the Speech-Language Specialist in our schools includes providing speech and language therapy to students, offering guidance to teachers in developing classroom activities, setting goals to enhance students' oral and written communication skills, and collaborating with other specialists, staff members, and parents.

Our primary goal is to remediate, ameliorate, or alleviate deficits in communication skills within the educational setting. Speech-language specialists utilize both formal and informal assessments to identify students with disorders related to language development, speech articulation, fluency (such as stuttering), and voice quality. Interventions focus on a student’s strengths rather than their disabilities. These services are often delivered in various school settings according to each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Language is essential for communicating our needs, feelings, and ideas effectively. When a child has difficulty understanding or using language, it can significantly impact their social interactions as well as academic development. Some children may struggle with producing specific speech sounds. Proper speech articulation requires the accurate production of sounds necessary for forming words; sound development is crucial for effective communication.

It is not uncommon for young children to have challenges producing certain speech sounds; however, this development typically correlates with the child's chronological age. Other children might exhibit non-fluent speech patterns (such as stuttering) or may use an inappropriate pitch or volume that affects their ability to communicate successfully within the classroom.

Does My Child Need Speech and Language Therapy?

It is common for children of similar ages to demonstrate a wide range of acceptable abilities and skills. However, if you notice a significant gap between your child’s abilities compared to their peers’, it may be time to seek advice from a trained speech-language specialist. If you have concerns about your child's speech or language development, please reach out to the school's Child Study Team.