By: Kaylie Wright, M.A., CCC-SLP
When you think about speech therapy for your child, you may not envision it being virtual. The thought of online speech therapy may leave you with some questions: is it effective, will my child connect with the therapist, will my child be able to attend to a computer for therapy? These are all great questions that you should be asking and considering. It is important to be informed about your decision. Here are some myths and truths about teletherapy.
Myth 1: Therapy online won’t keep my child’s attention
Although it may seem like working over a computer may make keeping a child’s attention difficult, it is often the opposite. Kids love technology and being on devices, and many find it more enjoyable to do therapy virtually as opposed to in person! Although teletherapy works great for many children, it is not a one-size-fits-all. It will not look the same for all children. If you are having concerns, it is important to reach out to your child’s therapist, and/or Enrichment Therapy and Learning Center P.C. to brainstorm the next steps.
Myth 2: I will have to buy expensive equipment for my child to be able to participate in speech therapy online
Fortunately, most technology found at home, already has what you need! You will need a computer or tablet with a webcam and microphone. It is also important to have a stable internet connection. It would be beneficial to have noise-canceling headphones and a quiet room for your child to sit in for the session.
Myth 3: Children can’t connect with a therapist virtually
It is important to realize that a fun, upbeat, and positive learning environment is important to a child’s success and building a connection with a therapist. Therapists can provide feedback and positive reinforcement just as easily online. This will help to create a positive learning environment and help your student to connect with the specialist they are working with.
Myth 4: Teletherapy limits the materials that can be used for therapy
Although it may seem that materials for in-person and online sessions must be very different, that is often not entirely true. Although materials may look a little bit different, most are able to be modified as needed to use online. In fact, kids often enjoy seeing their favorite activities being utilized on the computer!
Myth 5: Teletherapy adds extra screen time to a child’s already screen packed day
Traditional, passive screen time has been proven not beneficial for most children, however, this (passive) screen time is lacking many important factors that teletherapy offers: engagement, communication, socialization, and hard work. The activities worked on in teletherapy allow students to work their brains much like they would in a traditional in-person session!
Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center has locations in the Iowa City, IA area and Des Moines, IA area. We provide individual speech-language therapy and tutoring as well as offering small group academic programs. At Enrichment Therapy & Learning Center our passion is to help kids achieve effective communication skills and gain academic success. Contact us for more information on how we can help your child succeed.
info@enrichmenttherapies.com
740 Community Drive, Unit A
North Liberty, IA 52317
319-626-2553
infodm@enrichmenttherapies.com
5530 West Pkwy, Suite 300
Johnston, IA 50131
515-419-4270
0 Comments