Help! I think my child needs speech, language or feeding therapy. What do I do?

As a parent, discovering that your child may need speech, language or feeding therapy can bring about a range of emotions, from concern to complete confusion about where to even start. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to access the support and resources your child needs to thrive. In this guide, we'll walk through the process of getting therapeutic services for your child, offering practical tips and insights along the way.

Step 1. Recognize Signs of Speech, Language or Feeding Concerns:

Well, if you’re reading this, you’re likely already at this step. Before seeking speech therapy services for your child, it's essential to recognize the signs that may indicate speech, language or feeding difficulties. These signs can vary depending on your child's age but may include:

   - Limited vocabulary

   - Difficulty understanding or following instructions

   - Trouble pronouncing certain sounds or words

   - Lack of progress in speech development compared to peers

   - Challenges with social communication

- Difficulties progressing through feeding milestones (i.e., transitioning from breast to bottle, or from mashed foods to solid foods, for instance)

 - A limited variety of foods eaten

Step 2. Consult with Professionals:

   If you notice any of the above signs or have concerns about your child's speech, language or feeding development, it's advisable to consult with professionals such as pediatricians, educators, or speech-language pathologists (SLPs). These experts can provide valuable insights and assessments to determine if therapy might be necessary. That’s why here at Three Points Therapy, free consultations are offered to any parent or caregiver interested!

Step 3. Obtain a Speech-Language Evaluation:

   Following an initial consultation, your child may undergo a comprehensive speech-language evaluation conducted by a licensed SLP. This evaluation typically assesses various aspects of communication, including speech sound production, language comprehension, and social communication skills. The results of this evaluation will help determine the need for therapy and guide the development of a personalized treatment plan.

Step 4. Explore Service Options:

   Once the need for speech therapy has been established, it's time to explore service options available in your area. These may include:

   - School-based services: If your child is of school age, speech therapy may be provided as part of their Individualized Education Program (IEP) or through special education services.

   - Private practice: Many SLPs operate private practices and offer speech, language or feeding therapy services tailored to the needs of individual clients. At Three Points Therapy, services are provided in your home.

   - Teletherapy: With advancements in technology, teletherapy has become a very popular option for accessing speech, language or feeding therapy services remotely. The modality offers incredible convenience and flexibility for families. Denise provides teletherapy services to clients aged ~5 years & up in the states of California, New York, Wyoming & Florida.

Step 5. Navigate Insurance Coverage and Funding:

   Depending on your location and insurance coverage, speech therapy services may be partially or fully covered by insurance plans. In order to avoid any unexpected headaches later down the road, it's absolutely essential to familiarize yourself with your insurance policy's specific coverage. You might also explore other funding options available, such as grants or financial assistance programs.

At Three Points Therapy, each of our clients receives a comprehensive document known as a "Superbill." This document serves as a detailed receipt outlining all services provided and their associated costs. It empowers our clients to pursue reimbursement from their insurance providers and is offered to them free of charge. While we cannot guarantee reimbursement, it is our priority to afford our clients every opportunity to seek appropriate reimbursement.

Step 6. Engage in the Therapeutic Process:

Once speech therapy services are in place, active involvement and participation become vital for the therapy's effectiveness. If your child is participating in speech at school, encourage regular attendance of sessions and engage actively in therapy exercises at home. Moreover, maintain open lines of communication with your child's SLP to monitor progress and address any concerns as they arise.

At Three Points Therapy, we prioritize providing extensive support to our clients' families beyond the therapy sessions to ensure continuous skill development. This support may include weekly 15-minute post-session meetings with your SLP for parent/caregiver training, Q&A sessions, and more. Additionally, detailed follow-up write-ups are provided via email after each session. These emails reinforce key points discussed during meetings and provide additional guidance for home practice. Family engagement and collaboration are of utmost importance to us as they are essential for the child's success!

Step 7. Advocate for Your Child:

   As a parent, you play a vital role in advocating for your child's needs throughout their therapy journey. Whether it involves collaborating with educators to implement accommodations in the classroom or communicating with healthcare providers to address any underlying medical concerns, advocating for your child ensures they receive the support and resources necessary for their success.

Navigating the path to speech therapy services for your child may seem daunting at first, but with the right guidance and support, you can ensure they receive the assistance they need to thrive in their communication & feeding development skills. By recognizing signs of speech, language, or feeding concerns, consulting with professionals, exploring service options, and actively engaging in the therapeutic process, you can empower your child to reach their full potential. Remember, you are not alone on this journey, and there are resources and professionals available to support you every step of the way! Take the first step today and reach out to us for a free consultation to start your child's journey towards improved communication and feeding skills.