Pediatric Services
Expressive Language Disorder
Expressive language disorder is a communication disorder characterized by difficulties in effectively expressing thoughts, ideas, and feelings through spoken or written language. They can arise from various factors, such as developmental delays, neurological conditions, or specific language impairments. Speech-language therapy is typically recommended to help individuals with expressive language disorders develop stronger language skills, improve communication abilities, and enhance their overall interaction with others.
Signs of an Expressive Language Disorder
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Limited vocabulary, resulting in use of simple language
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Use of jargon (made up words, mumbling)
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Difficulty forming complete and may frequently omit words
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Reduced knowledge of grammatical rules
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Difficulty retelling stories, often lacking in detail
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Decreased linguistic organizational output, making it hard for others listening to follow along
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Frustration and/or avoidance with communication
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Social challenges, such as engaging in conversation with peers
Receptive Language Disorder
Receptive language disorder refers to a communication difficulty where a child has trouble understanding and processing spoken or written language. This challenge can stem from various factors, such as developmental delays or neurological conditions. Speech-language therapy can play a crucial role in helping these children enhance their language comprehension skills, improve their interactions, and succeed in various aspects of daily life.
Signs of a Receptive Language Disorder
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Difficulty following directions, may need multiple repetitions or clarification
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Limited vocabulary due to challenges understanding new or unfamiliar words
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Providing vague or off-topic responses when asked questions
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Difficulty understanding and/or retelling stories in a logical sequence
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Reduced understanding of abstract concepts
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May present as reduced attention or compliance
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Decreased confidence in participating in discussions or initiating conversation with peers
Speech Sound Disorder
Speech sound disorder refers to a communication difficulty where a person has challenges in producing and articulating speech sounds correctly. This can result in pronunciation errors, making their speech difficult to understand for others. Causes can vary, including developmental factors, hearing impairments, or underlying motor coordination issues. Speech-language therapy plays a vital role in addressing speech sound disorders by helping individuals improve their articulation, sound production, and overall speech clarity.
Signs of a Speech Sound Disorder
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Sound substitutions, omissions, and/or distortions
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Speech sound error patterns
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Frontal or lateral lisp
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Reduced clarity of speech
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Difficulty producing more complex words
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Avoiding words containing sounds that may be difficult to produce
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Frustration when not understood by others
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Reduced confidence when interacting with peers resulting in limited conversation participation
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Difficulty with reading and writing
Pediatric Voice Disorders
Pediatric voice disorders refer to conditions in which a child's voice quality, pitch, loudness, or overall vocal production deviate from what is considered typical for their age and developmental stage. These disorders can result from various factors, including vocal misuse, vocal cord nodules or polyps, neurological conditions, or anatomical abnormalities. Pediatric voice therapy, aims to help children improve their vocal habits, vocal cord function, and overall vocal health, thereby enhancing their communication abilities and restoring a clear, age-appropriate voice.
What Does Voice Therapy Look Like?
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Improve ability to monitor voice use and recognize signs of strain or misuse
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Learn how to identify and modify vocal behaviors, such as yelling or screaming through play-based strategies
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Adjusting the child's vocal environment such as reducing noisy settings
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Enhance vocal clarity for speaking and/or singing
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Learn examples of vocal misuse and/or abuse
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Improve breath support in order to support vocal projection and/or physical endurance with sports
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Reduce vocal fatigue that often follows periods of prolonged speaking
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Reduce and/or eliminate chronic coughing and throat clearing
Parent Coaching
Research strongly supports parent-led language interventions given the positive impact on children's communication behaviors. Studies have consistently highlighted the pivotal role of parents in enhancing their child's communication skills and language development. By equipping parents with targeted strategies, techniques, and knowledge about speech and language milestones, parent training programs empower them to create rich language environments at home. This collaboration between parents and speech therapists not only accelerates progress in children's speech and language abilities but also fosters better communication and engagement within the family dynamic. Parent coaching is the ideal program for parents wishing to take a more active role in effectively facilitating their child's speech and language development.
Integrated Into Your Daily Routine
Together, we collaborate to build a personalized home program where the strategies learned can be easily integrated into your daily routines (e.g., meal time, bath time, car rides). All sessions are also completed virtually in your child's most natural environment - their home.
You Become
The Teacher
Parents are directly provided with extensive education and modeling of various communication strategies which will then be practiced with their children in the home throughout the week. Children may not be required to be present for all sessions given the emphasis on parent training.
Consistent Weekly Feedback
Parents are provided with both verbal, visual, and video feedback due to its effectiveness in enhancing the learning process. Studies have demonstrated that video recordings allow parents to observe and analyze their interactions with their child, providing them with a visual and concrete understanding of their communication dynamics.
