Speech Therapy

Speech therapy can address issues with speaking, reading, listening, writing, thinking, and swallowing. Many different ages and areas are focused on with speech services: cognitive, articulation, expressive/receptive language, and swallowing. 

Warning signs that a child may need speech therapy services:

Speech Issues and Difficulty: 

• Not trying to talk by 12 months
• Words are difficult to understand
• No two-word phrases by 20 months
• Difficulty understanding directions or simple questions (repeating all or part of question or repeating “what”?)
• Stuttering, getting stuck on or repeating parts of a word (could be accompanied by physical struggles) 
• Hoarse voice, yelling, screaming, making noises, being loud, growling

Issues With Feeding/Swallowing/Oral Motor Skills:

• Weak, uncoordinated, or ineffective sucking
• Uncoordinated rhythm of suck-swallow-breathe; may struggle, arch, or rarely stop to breathe
• Frequent coughing, choking, or gasping for air while eating or drinking
• Loses food or liquid while eating/drinking
• Difficulty transitioning to new food consistencies
• Excessive drooling
• Picky eater/problem feeder

To learn more or schedule an appointment, call (712) 655-2072.