Preparing Your Child for the First Speech Therapy Session Online

Beginning speech therapy is a watershed moment in your child’s development; yet, it is reasonable to be both excited and concerned about the potential outcomes. Whether you are beginning speech therapy in New York City or in another city, the initial online session becomes the foundation for the future progress in communication of your child. Fortunately, if you are well prepared, you can get your little tot relaxed, self-confident, and willing to cooperate from the first day.

A few parents think about the arrangements for conducting the initial virtual session without a hitch. Choosing the correct setting in the house and previewing the activities beforehand in plain age-appropriate vocabulary, you and your child shall be prepared and enthusiastic for online speech therapy.

Create a Comfortable, Distraction-Free Space

The perfect setting can have a profound effect on the attitude of the young individual regarding his/her session. Choose a quiet corner in the living room in an effort to reduce distractions—out of the activities fun for misbehaving siblings, temptation from the latest shows, and the heavy footfalls. A designated space, like a quiet corner in the dining room or a table in one’s own bedroom, gives the child the message that the designated space is only for focused therapy time.

Have your child sit comfortably at a table or desks from which the screen can be clearly visible and from which he can access varied material. It should be well lit so the therapist can see your child’s facial expression and the mouth especially clearly. If possible, sit the device at eye level, and test your internet beforehand so that no technical issues arise at all during the session.

Clutter should be kept minimal, but some necessities should be readily available—a preferred play object, a cup for water, tissues, and perhaps a whiteboard or paper for some activities. There are certain things the therapist may require, so having a basket well-supplied with activity available can be extremely convenient.

Explain What Will Happen in Simple Terms

Children are more at ease if they have some idea of where things are leading. A day or two in advance, discuss with your child the new speaking therapist he or she will be seeing. You can inform young children something like, “We’re going to speak with a very special teacher over the computer who works with children learning how to speak with their talking words.” You’re going to play games and have fun together!” Teenagers and older children can use more information about the purpose behind speech therapy and things they can expect to accomplish.

Gear the experience positively and also resist putting pressure on the child. Do not state things such as “You must get the way you talk right” or “You must get better.”Inspire the concept of fun and growth, like: ‘Your speech therapist will help you talk more efficiently’ or ‘You’re actually going to learn some interesting things about the way we utter and use words.'”

In the event that the child panics at the idea of talking with a stranger while being videotaped, reassure them that you are right there with them. Make them realize that it’s completely normal feeling awkward at first—many kids feel this way, and therapists are skilled at putting kids at ease in their own time.

Involve Your Child in the Setup

Providing some degree of agency for your son/daughter in the process can increase feelings of comfort. Let them help choose the location for the therapy sessions or which chair they can sit in. Teenage children can enjoy helping with the testing of the video connection or sorting their therapeutic resources. Such small involvement can create more feelings of control and thus diminish the anxiety with this new experience.

For preschoolers who are learning through play, you may even practice playing the session’s format in advance with a grandparent or family member via video call. The practice allows them to experience the format without the rigors of the actual session.

Gather Any Requested Materials

The therapist will likely provide a list of things to prepare for the session. Commonly listed items include books, toys, domestic items designed for the purpose of naming exercises, art tools like crayons or markers, and specific games.

The layout and availability of the material help prevent disturbances once the session begins. Do not fret if you lack anything from the list—therapists are also flexible and can modify activities based on available resources at your own abode. The aim is merely to be ready with all the things possible so that your child can spend more time playing instead of waiting for objects.

Set Realistic Expectations for the First Session

Remember that the initial session is often building rapport and learning about your child. You can be assured that your therapist will take some time to talk with you and your child, play some low-key games, and take in the interaction your child generates. It’s an assessment and a bonding experience and not an inquisition.

Your child can be talky and effervescent, or soft-spoken and thoughtful—all are quite normal reactions. Some children leap right into action, and others need multiple sessions in which they relax. Trust that your therapist recognizes this range of responses and knows how to operate with the personality unique to your child.

Be Present But Not Hovering

Keep nearby where the child can see you in the session if the child is young. Being there lets the child feel secure, but try to let the therapist have the focus of the interaction. Do not interrupt the session with ready-made answers for the child or correcting the child in activities except when the therapist does ask for your input.

Your job is one of encouragement and reinforcement. When your youngster accomplishes something new, a nod, a grin, or subtle praise can be really useful. After the lesson, avoid the need to interrogate your child on minute minutiae. Instead, provide straightforward, positive feedback such as “I noticed that you worked really hard today” or “Your therapist seemed very nice!”

Celebrate the First Step

Starting speech therapy is a big step in the right way for your child’s communication skills. After the first session, start something little to celebrate, such as a favorite treat, extra playtime, or a sticker on a chart. Positive reinforcement helps your youngster associate therapy with positive activities.

With the right preparation and optimistic attitude, the initial online speech therapy with your child can become the onset of a prosperous future in improving communication skills. You should realize that you are in no way alone in the process—your therapist becomes the helping partner in the progress of your child, forging ahead with each session.