What is play-based speech therapy and why do it?
Play-based therapy is an approach many speech language pathologists utilize to create meaningful and motivating therapy experiences for their clients. In play-based therapy, speech and language skills are targeted naturally throughout play while following the child’s lead. Rather than developing a well-constructed plan of action, we simply jump into the child’s world and meet the child where they are at. Not only can this type of therapy be fun and engaging, but it allows the therapist the opportunity to establish themselves as a true play partner and form a safe and comfortable environment for the child to learn and develop.
What are the benefits to play-based speech therapy?
Play is natural for children: Working 9-5 (Cue in Ms. Dolly herself). A child’s work is play. Children thrive in activities that they enjoy or what their body needs (jumping, crashing, etc.). Allowing a child to engage their curiosity in hands-on experiences promotes learning.
Builds on what the child already knows: Children can build and layer their knowledge. Not everything is new when using familiar tasks, such as play. Children are more likely to participate and take risks in activities they are most comfortable in.
It is engaging: Play provides natural opportunities for reciprocal interaction. You can use playful interactions to teach a variety of communication skills. Joint attention anyone?!
It can happen anywhere: Outside, inside, at the pool, in their classroom – children play everywhere! Not only does this present a handful of opportunities, but it also makes it easier to work on therapy goals at any time!
Parents can use activities at home: With the help from your speech therapist, and playing an active role and/or simply observing therapy sessions, parents can feel empowered to use the same activities at home to support their child
It is F U N: Kids love to play. It is much easier to keep kids learning when they are having fun. We can also incorporate a child’s interests into therapy, making it meaningful and motivating.
Interested in learning more? Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more tips on simple play ideas you can start using TODAY!
hello@mwspeechtherapy.com
Comments