Communication Communication is the cornerstone to any successful relationship, including you and your child’s relationship with his therapist. There are several ways to make sure your communication between you and his therapist remains open and honest at all times. Ask questions – his therapist has a multitude of knowledge and techniques that they will try with him. Part of a therapist’s job is to give you the tools and activities to work with him at home during non-therapy hours/days. As with most skills, practice makes perfect, so making sure you fully understand everything that is going on is important to his success. Share details – his therapist is only with him an hour or two a week, so it is important to communicate any concerns, struggles, and triumphs he has had. This information provides valuable insight to your therapist as to how he is in his “natural” environment. It will also help determine future techniques used. Problem solve and share ideas – both you, as his parent, and his therapist have important and valuable jobs. BOTH are required and necessary for him to continue to grow and succeed. Though his therapist has the knowledge and training, you know your child best, and together you can create a treatment plan that fits your child best.
Stay Actively Involved
The younger your child is the more active you will be in her therapy sessions, especially for children under three years old. If she is older she may prefer that you wait in the waiting room. If that is the case, it does not mean you can’t be active in her therapy sessions. Observing through a window or requesting her sessions to be recorded are great ways to observe her and learn valuable information.
Finding the Best Fit
Just like children, every therapist is different. Each one has their own style and specialty that they incorporate into their treatment plans. We strive to provide you with a therapist that will nurture and help your child grow in a positive way. Sometimes the “fit” between your child and therapist may not be right, and if that is the case, please feel free to contact us, and let us find your child’s perfect fit. Sources: SpeechTherapyCentres.com | MyEveryDaySpeech.com | HandtoHold.org | LifeSkills.us Be Involved In Your Child’s Therapy Shandy Marso, Contributor Carolina Pediatric Therapy © September 2014
