Art Activities in Speech-Language Therapy

Speech Therapy Techniques
Child Holding Up Painting

Image source: childminderwidnes.co.uk

There are two main styles of speech therapy: directive and naturalistic. A directive approach is more structured. The speech therapist might hold up an object, name it, and prompt the child to repeat the word. In contrast, the naturalistic approach may simply look like play. It’s less structured, and it often involves arts and crafts activities. Finding ways to fit art activities in Speech-Language Therapy is a rewarding exercise, and certainly worth considering.

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Singing in Speech-Language Therapy

Speech Therapy Techniques
Child Singing with Headphones

Image source: nymetroparents.com

Studies have shown that patients who have trouble speaking after a stroke can learn to sing their words instead. This is called melodic intonation therapy (MIT), and it may also help your child deal with his speech disorder. The use of MIT in speech-language therapy (SLT) can particularly help children who have apraxia. Apraxia is a neurological disorder in which the brain understands the words, but the mouth cannot form them. Children with apraxia often use gestures and single syllable grunts.

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