Early intervention speech therapy speech therapy aims to improve a child’s speech and language development. It is effective in the early years because it capitalizes on the child’s growing brain. By taking advantage of this peak learning period, it helps the child catch up to his or her peers.
During the first three years of a child’s life, the brain is incredibly plastic. This is why it is important to detect any speech or language problems before they become serious. The earlier the therapist can identify and fix the problem, the better for the child.
Early Intervention (EI) programs offer free services to New York families. If your child meets the eligibility criteria, the evaluator will contact you and answer any questions.
EI evaluations are conducted at the home or in daycare. They are done by professionals who ask questions and observe the child’s development. Using an informal test, the evaluator can determine a child’s understanding of language.
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After the evaluation, the child will be given an Individualized Family Service Plan. Parents will be asked to attend a meeting to discuss the results of the evaluation. In addition, the child will be evaluated by a Speech-Language Pathologist.
Early intervention speech therapy uses a variety of techniques to help the child communicate more effectively. These techniques can include introducing visuals and verbal exercises at home.
A therapist may also try to target specific skills, such as pronouncing words correctly or using expressive gestures. Some therapists use a “bagless” approach, allowing the child to carry over the skills when the therapist is not around.