Children with cleft lip and/or palate encounter specific challenges, particularly regarding speech and communication. Although surgery can address the structural issues, ongoing therapy is frequently essential for helping these children achieve clear speech, enhance feeding skills, and build confidence. At Total Speech Therapy, we provide specialized, comprehensive therapy for cleft lip and palate in Baltimore and Houston, delivering compassionate, expert care customized to meet each child’s unique needs.
Understanding Cleft Lip and Palate
A cleft lip is characterized by a physical split in the upper lip, while a cleft palate involves an opening in the roof of the mouth. These conditions can be present independently or together and may impact a child’s ability to eat, breathe, hear, and, most crucially, articulate clearly. Since speech production relies on proper airflow and the coordination of the lips, tongue, and palate, children with these cleft conditions frequently face delays in speech development or challenges in producing sounds accurately. This is where speech therapy becomes vital.
The Role of Speech Therapy in Cleft Care
After surgical repair, many children continue to have difficulty with articulation (the ability to produce speech sounds) and resonance (how sound vibrates through the oral and nasal cavities). Without proper guidance, these issues can persist and impact academic performance, social interaction, and self-esteem.
At Total Speech Therapy, our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) assess each child’s specific challenges and develop a therapy plan focused on:
- Improving articulation and sound clarity
- Reducing hypernasality (excessive nasal sound)
- Correcting compensatory speech patterns
- Enhancing expressive and receptive language skills
- Supporting feeding and swallowing when needed
We use engaging, evidence-based techniques that are tailored to the child’s age, abilities, and recovery stage.
Why Choose Total Speech Therapy?
Families choose Total Speech Therapy because we go beyond standard treatment protocols. Our team collaborates with pediatricians, surgeons, and other healthcare providers to ensure a holistic approach to care. We understand that each child’s journey is unique, and we’re committed to helping them reach their full communication potential.
Here’s what makes us different:
- One-on-one therapy sessions for focused attention
- In-home and school-based services for convenience
- Bilingual therapy options, if needed
- Family education and support throughout the process
- Ongoing assessments to track progress and adjust goals
We believe therapy should be accessible, empowering, and effective—especially for children overcoming the unique challenges posed by a cleft condition.
Early Intervention Matters
The earlier a child begins therapy, the better the outcomes tend to be. Even before surgery, speech-language pathologists can assist with feeding strategies and provide parents with tools to support language development at home. After surgery, consistent speech therapy helps ensure that the child develops proper muscle coordination for clear communication.
Delaying therapy may lead to entrenched speech habits that are more difficult to correct later. That’s why we encourage parents in Baltimore and Houston to reach out to Total Speech Therapy as soon as a diagnosis is made.
Support Beyond Speech
Cleft conditions can also impact a child’s confidence and willingness to speak in social situations. That’s why our therapy approach includes emotional encouragement and positive reinforcement. We celebrate every milestone—no matter how small—and work closely with families to create a nurturing environment where children feel safe and motivated to grow. At Total Speech Therapy, we’re passionate about helping children with cleft lip and palate communicate more freely, confidently, and joyfully. With our specialized cleft therapy services in Baltimore and Houston, we offer the guidance and expertise your child needs to thrive. To learn more or schedule an evaluation!