Speech Therapy

[sherrardk]

Eventually got an appointment for one the little ones to see a speech therapist for an initial consultation. He 'failed' his two year assessment and has had glue ear (though not severely) and, too be fair, at 2 years and 8 months he can't talk for toffee (not overly worried as I am sure he will catch up). How will they actually assess him if he is not talking?

[cazzz1975]

they also assess his understanding of what he hears, they use picture cards and play games that help encourage speech.

[sherrardk]

Hi cazzz - he understands what he hears, uses Mr Tumble signing (and makes up his own) but just doesn't speak. Being one of twins I know that he is supposed to be about 6 months behind children of similar ages but his sister is talking (not that I am comparing them - just an observation). He doesn't actually say any proper words and even calls me 'Ma' (like Nick Cotton).

[jkelly24]

I am sure when you speak to the speech therapist you will find his problem is more common for them than you think and they will have ways and means of dealing with his speech. I found the speech therapists that helped my son to be very very good and explained his particular problem to me very well, I never realised there were so many different types of speech problems. It can sometimes be quite a long haul and not just a quick fix as I thought my sons problem would be. They will give you exercises to do with him at home and if you can do these as much as you can it really does make a difference. You are already on the right track getting an appointment with a speech therapist and I wish you and your son all the best. It will all come together in the end.

[ladyalex]

I can only echo what jkelly says. My son was well over 2 until he spoke. His speech was very indistinct for quite some time and he had real trouble pronouncing some words. We saw a speech therapist when he was about 4 and she made a huge difference. She gave us exercises to do at home which he really enjoyed and he was soon speaking normally.
I'm sure your little one will be fine and that the speech therapist appointment will be very positive.