Since 1927, The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association has recognized May as Better Speech and Hearing Month. This month, we focus on raising awareness about communication disorders and promoting ways to improve the quality of life for those who experience problems with speaking, understanding, or hearing.
If you have a child that is experiencing any or some of the above, here are some steps you can take to assist your child's communication and determine if a speech/language disorder may be present.
Delays in developmental milestones can be a trigger for speech/language problems. For example, if a child takes longer to learn how to walk, he or she may be slower when learning verbal skills. Watch for these developmental milestones to determine if your child needs early intervention. If delays in developmental milestones are proactively addressed early on, a child is less at risk for speech problems.
If you think a speech issue may be present, it's important to first have your child go through a speech evaluation. A comprehensive speech/language evaluation determines if there is a speech/language disorder affecting everyday function at home, school or socially. The type of speech evaluation used can vary depending on the situation.
Taking the above steps will ensure your child has the ability to tap into his or her full learning potential, socialize with others and excel in school.
Learn more about our Speech Therapy program.
Access our Symptoms Checklist to see which A Chance To Grow intervention might be best for your child.
For more information, contact us at (612)789-1236 or actg@actg.org.