Category Archives: Blog

Disruptions in the normal forward flow of speech characterize stuttering or stammering. This post will go into greater detail about this speech disorder and offer advice on how to handle it.

Stuttering affects a significant number of people all over the world. Moreover, stuttering can affect people of any age. People typically begin stuttering at a young age. Basically, it’s something that develops in young people. As time passes, stuttering worsens if not addressed. It’s also possible that a mild case of stuttering has become more severe over time. For this reason, prompt treatment is of the utmost importance.

How common is stuttering, and is it treatable?

There is currently no known medical treatment for stuttering. Research says stuttering can be managed with speech therapy techniques. However, there are times when stuttering cannot be completely eliminated. Currently, a wide variety of treatment options are available. From language-learning gadgets to mobile apps to alternative medicine, the list goes on and on. However, electronic fluency devices have been shown to alleviate stuttering symptoms temporarily. Currently, there is no way to permanently fix the problem. Speech therapy is the only treatment that has been shown to work, so it is the only choice.

Speech-language pathologists, who are experts in their field, can help with stuttering. Moreover, they assist people of all ages who are dealing with communication disorders.

What does stuttering therapy entail?

Speech-language pathologists assist in managing stuttering. The general emphasis is on things like;

  • Speaking clearly and concisely
  • easy pronunciation of words and phrases
  • Changing the rate of speech
  • Making speech sound more natural
  • enhancing the individual’s quality of life

The objectives will center on the aforementioned aspects. Furthermore, the treatment focus differs slightly between children and adults.

Is it better to try to stop stuttering or just accept it?

Having a stutter is not something to be embarrassed or insecure about. That is to say, we all have linguistic quirks that make us sound a little odd at times. Stuttering is accepted by many. The first step toward a better life is accepting yourself as you are. Accept your stammer and use it to your advantage! Accepting stuttering is a positive step, but it’s not without its challenges. Start speech therapy today to control your stuttering. Making the adjustment, however, requires work and time. You can have a better quality of life by getting help for your stuttering. If you want to know why it’s important to treat stuttering, read on.

The next step is deciding whether you want to accept your stuttering or get help for it.

Reasons why Stuttering Therapy is Necessary

Speech therapy for stuttering has some advantages. Some of them are listed below:

Higher living standards

Speech therapy for stuttering can do wonders for improving fluency. Considerations like how content you are with your life are crucial to your quality of life. Stuttering can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. Learn how to control your stuttering and enrich your life immediately!

More self-confidence

Speech therapy for people who stutter is meant to help them communicate better in general. A lot of people get their self-assurance from the way they carry themselves verbally, behaviorally, and physically. Taking control of your stuttering can help you feel more confident by making your speech sound more natural.

Easy to Live and Speak

People who stutter face challenges on a daily basis. Is your speech preventing you from getting a promotion? This is something that speech therapy can definitely help with. Prepare to see your career flourish and your child stands up to bullies and live a more confident life!

Improved Mental Health

Anxiety, depression, and shifts in personality are common among those who stutter. When a speech therapy program and a structured counseling session are used together, they can help people have better mental health. This is the time to intervene if you suspect your child is too nervous or shy to speak up in class. A good speech therapy program will always lead to better mental health as a side effect.

When should you consult an expert?

Children who stutter in preschool are closely followed to see if they improve on their own. Thus, this kind of recovery occurs naturally only in preschoolers. 

In children, treatment typically begins before age 5. Therefore, getting your child some expert assistance will help them flourish.

A speech therapist, then, can work wonders! Therefore, speech-language pathologists play a significant role in the treatment of stuttering. Nothing magical happens. So, there is literally no other treatment option. A stutter cannot be cured by medication. 

Have a look at what a speech-language pathologist does:

  • You’ll feel much more relaxed after consulting a specialist.
  • Improves your ability to express yourself clearly and effectively.  
  • They can also make a person more confident in public speaking. 
  • Helps with other problems as well. 

Now think about a person who still stuttered after therapy. He or she has to start from scratch, right? Is this something that happens? Yes, it does occur! This is “Relapse.” Essentially, when a patient “relapses,” they go backwards while undergoing treatment. Moreover, he or she simply stops showing up for therapy sessions.

Why does stuttering relapse occur?

  • An absence of practice 
  • Lack of monitoring
  • Absence of interest and motivation
  • Getting false fluency

How can you achieve better results? 

  • Adhere to the home plan. 
  • Spend time with your child to review speech techniques
  • Participate in support groups and therapy classes
  • Listen to your child carefully
  • Keep your expectations at a reasonable level
  • Encourage fluent speech at all times
  • Do not criticize your child’s language development
  • Schedule monthly check-ins with your therapist

Feel free to call Total Speech Therapy in Baltimore at 410-696-3301 or write to yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with a Speech Language Pathologist.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neuro-developmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. Unfortunately, there are many myths and misconceptions about ASD that can lead to misunderstandings and stigma. In this blog post, we will break down some of the most common myths and misconceptions about ASD and provide accurate information to promote understanding and acceptance.

Myth #1: 

People with autism spectrum disorders lack empathy

A common myth about ASD is that individuals with the condition do not have empathy. This is simply not true. While people with ASD may have difficulty with social interaction and understanding the emotions of others, this does not mean they lack empathy. Many individuals with ASD are highly empathetic and caring, and they may have a unique perspective on the world that allows them to connect with others in meaningful ways.

Myth #2: 

Autism spectrum disorder is the result of poor parenting

This is another common myth about ASD, and it is completely unfounded. There is no evidence to suggest that parenting styles or practices cause ASD. Instead, research has shown that ASD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that likely has a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Myth #3: 

People with autism spectrum disorders cannot communicate

Individuals with ASD may find social communication and interaction difficult, but they can still communicate despite these challenges. Many people with ASD have excellent verbal and nonverbal communication skills, as well as abilities in reading, writing, and memorization. It is critical to remember that communication difficulties are only one aspect of ASD and that people with the condition are individuals with their own strengths and challenges.

Myth #4: 

Autism spectrum disorder is a rare condition

While ASD was once thought to be a rare condition, it is now estimated to affect 1 in every 54 children in the United States. This means that ASD affects millions of people, and it is critical to recognize that it is not a rare condition.

Myth #5: 

People with autism spectrum disorder are intellectually disabled

While some individuals with ASD may also have an intellectual disability, this is not true for all individuals with the condition. In fact, many people with ASD have average or above-average intelligence and may excel in areas such as math, science, or music. It is important to remember that intelligence is not necessarily related to ASD and that each individual with the condition is unique.

Myth #6: 

Autism Spectrum Disorder can be cured

While there is no known cure for ASD, early intervention and treatment can help individuals with the condition improve their quality of life by developing important skills and abilities. Treatment options may include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, behavior therapy, and medication. It is important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ASD and that each individual with the condition may have unique needs and challenges.

Myth #7: 

People with autism spectrum disorder are all the same

While people with ASD share some characteristics, such as difficulty with social interaction and communication, each individual is unique. Some people with ASD may have a special interest or talent, whereas others may experience sensory sensitivities or anxiety. It is critical to recognize and value the uniqueness of each person with ASD.

Myth #8: 

Autism spectrum disorder is a childhood condition

While ASD is usually diagnosed in childhood, it is a lifelong condition that affects people their entire lives. Many adults with ASD may have difficulties with employment, relationships, and social interaction, and they may benefit from ongoing support and services.

Myth #9: 

People with autism spectrum disorder do not want friends

While individuals with ASD may have difficulty with social interaction and making friends, this does not mean they do not want or value relationships. Many individuals with ASD have a strong desire for social connection.

Myth #10: 

Autism is a life sentence

Autism is a lifelong condition, but that doesn’t mean that people with autism can’t live happy, fulfilling lives. With the right support, interventions, and autism therapy, many people with autism are able to achieve their goals and lead productive, meaningful lives.

Every person with autism is different and has their own set of strengths and challenges. It is indeed imperative to remember that autism is complicated, with various effects on each individual. While a few autistic persons might need constant care and help, others could be able to live independently and accomplish their goals without a lot of outside help.

While a few autistic persons might need constant care and help, others could be able to live independently and accomplish their goals without a lot of outside help.

We can make the world more inclusive and helpful for everyone, regardless of neurological abnormalities, by dispelling these beliefs and fostering a broader awareness of and acceptance of autism.

Total Speech Therapy, a leading provider of comprehensive speech therapy services, has recently opened its Houston office to a improved location. The new office is situated at 3845 FM 1960 W, Ste. 181, Houston, Texas 77068, United States, and offers a more spacious and convenient facility for clients seeking language and speech therapy services in the Houston area.

The new location offers a larger space for more therapy rooms, ensuring that more clients can be accommodated. Additionally, the office is conveniently situated near major highways, making it easy for clients to access.

Total Speech Therapy is a team of certified speech-language pathologists dedicated to helping children and adults overcome speech and language difficulties. They provide a wide range of services, including speech and language therapy, articulation therapy, and many more. They also specialize in working with individuals who have developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder. The experienced team of speech-language pathologists at Total Speech Therapy is dedicated to developing personalized treatment plans to help clients overcome speech and language barriers.

The team remain committed to providing high-quality speech therapy services to their clients. They strive to help individuals of all ages achieve their full potential in their personal and professional lives. The team works closely with clients to create a warm and welcoming environment where they can receive individualized treatment plans to cater to their specific needs.

In addition to speech therapy services, Total Speech Therapy offers workshops, training sessions, and online resources such as blogs and videos to support clients in achieving their communication goals.

The team at Total Speech Therapy is passionate about helping its clients achieve success in all areas of their lives. They take a collaborative approach to therapy, working with families and healthcare professionals to provide the best care possible for the clients. The team dedication to excellent speech therapy services has earned them a reputation as a trusted provider in Houston.

Total Speech Therapy is committed to continuing its legacy of excellence in speech therapy services. They believe that effective communication is essential for personal and professional success, and they are committed to providing every individual with the opportunity to achieve it. Its additional new location is a reflection of commitment to expand reach and to provide quality speech therapy services in the Houston area. You can either drop an email at yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com or even call us at 410-696-3301 for personalized suggestions.

It’s a speech-sound disorder called apraxia of speech (AOS) often caused by a brain injury or stroke. Additionally, the individual has trouble producing the necessary oral movements to make the sound. Thus, AOS can occur even in the absence of muscle weakness. The person has normal muscle tone, strength, and mobility, but they can’t make any speech sounds.

In a typical case of AOS, the individual is visibly struggling to make the sound. Furthermore, he/she appears to be searching for where to position the speech muscles, such as the lips and tongue. Consequently, searching and groping are very prevalent in AOS. AOS can exist independently or in conjunction with oral apraxia.

Diagnostic Methodology

First of all, a speech-language pathologist will review the symptoms, medical history, speech muscles, speech sounds, words, and phrases to assess their condition.

The speech-language pathologist will evaluate the vocabulary, sentence structure, and speech comprehension skills.

CAS is diagnosed using multiple tests and observations. It really depends on the nature of the issues that have been observed. Your child’s age, level of cooperation, and the severity of the speech problem will all determine which tests will be administered during the evaluation.

When a patient has limited communication skills or is unable to engage with the speech-language pathologist, a diagnosis of CAS can be challenging.

Knowing whether or not an individual has CAS is important because it requires a different approach to treatment than other speech disorders. Even if the diagnosis is initially hazy, a speech-language pathologist may be able to advise you on the best course of treatment.

Examples of possible diagnostic procedures are: 

Hearing tests: If someone is having difficulty communicating, your doctor may recommend hearing tests to rule out hearing loss as a possible cause.

Evaluation of oral-motor skills: A speech therapist will check for tongue-tie, cleft palate, and other structural and functional issues with the lips, tongue, jaw, and palate. In most cases, CAS is not linked to low muscle tone, but it can be a symptom of other issues.

The speech-language pathologist will watch how the patient moves their mouth when they blow, smile, or kiss.

Speech assessment: The ability to form sounds, words, and sentences will be evaluated while the patient is engaged in play or other activities.

The patient may be asked to name pictures to identify any sounds, words, or syllables that he or she has trouble pronouncing.

The speech-language pathologist working with the patient may use speech tasks to assess his motor speech skills, such as coordination and fluency. Repetition of syllables like “pa-ta-ka” or the articulation of words like “buttercup” may be requested to gauge your child’s motor speech coordination.

If the patient is capable of forming sentences, a speech-language pathologist will listen to and record his speech to evaluate the melody and rhythm of his speech, including how he places emphasis on individual syllables and words.

A speech therapist may use cues like saying the word or sound more slowly or touching his face to help him produce more accurate responses.

Treatment for AOS often includes speech and language therapy. The following discussion provides some helpful tips that should be considered during AOS treatment.

Tips for Dealing with Speech Apraxia

  1. Participatory Session:

Make the session fun and engaging.

For the /b/ sound, for instance, the child could be given the following guidance:

  • Join your lips
  • Take a deep breath and hold it behind your lips.
  • Let your breath out immediately.
  • The sound can also be used in a practical manner. Pick words with short CVC and CV sequences to memorize. Examples include “bee,” “bow,” “boo,” etc.
  1. Incorporate a multi-sensory strategy: 

When dealing with AOS, it is best to employ a multi-sensory approach. To teach sound, you should use all of your senses, not just hearing and seeing. Let’s say we’re working on teaching the /b/ sound to the kid. Here are some of the things we can accomplish by utilizing multiple senses:

  • Put your lips together as a visual cue.
  • Pronounce the letter “b” three times. Audio cue: Say “ba” three times in a row.
  • The “b” sound can be felt as air is expelled from the mouth, so placing a hand in front of the mouth can serve as a tactile cue. 
  1. More frequent sessions of intensive therapy: 

First, consistent speech therapy sessions will be beneficial. Second, it’s best to schedule between three and five therapy sessions per week. A parent-focused program, however, is recommended. One way that these exercises are continued at home is through a program designed specifically for parents.

Moreover, due to a wide range of differences among people who have AOS, individualized treatment plans are likely to yield the best results. It’s best to begin with one-on-one sessions.

  1. Exercises to improve intonation and prosody:

People with AOS not only have problems with the sounds they make when talking, but they also have unusual rhythms and intonations in their speech. These people, in other words, stress and pause incorrectly and speak at an abnormal pitch. Stress, intonation, pitch, and rhythm are all aspects of prosody that can be used in therapy sessions. Afterward, kids can finish up by singing songs, rhymes, humming, chanting, etc.

When speaking to an adult, it is important to use the correct prosodic features along with the intended sound. Each individual word, phrase, and sentence is examined.

  1. Allowing ample practice to promote skill generalization:

Therapeutically, it’s crucial to allow time for the patient to practice the new skill in real-world contexts. This is a broad generalization. Allowing some time for the process of generalization aids in the application of lessons learned in one context to another. Having more opportunities to put what you’ve learned into practice boosts your likelihood of retaining that knowledge. Do it with the help of the therapist at first, and then try to reduce your need for their assistance over time.

  1. Giving session feedback—knowledge of results versus performance:

The importance of feedback in the acquisition of new abilities cannot be overstated. Knowing a client’s preferred method of instruction allows therapists to tailor their feedback accordingly.

In some cases, informing clients of the outcomes could be beneficial. It entails commenting on the correctness or incorrectness of the statement. If the therapist and client are working on the word “ball,” and the client says “all,” the therapist would correct the client by saying, “No, that is wrong.” Could you say ball?

There would be less restrictions placed on one’s knowledge of performance. The counselor would simply paraphrase the patient’s words and offer suggestions for improvement. If the therapist is working with the client on the word “ball,” and the client says “all,” the therapist might respond, “I heard it as all.” Please repeat that, but this time includes the letter “b” at the beginning.

If a brain injury or stroke has resulted in apraxia and a person is not able to say what they want to say even though there is no physical barrier, speech therapy can go a long way in correcting the problem. For the best speech therapy sessions in Baltimore, and Houston you can always contact Total Speech Therapy for help at 410-696-3301 or by sending an email to yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com. We have specialized speech-language therapists who can help your loved ones regain their speech.

A parent’s responsibilities are extensive. They are guiding their children to become the best people they can be. However, getting a diagnosis of speech and language difficulties can be devastating for a family. This is the hardest time for both the child and their parents. The child needs high quality speech therapy and a lot of patience and support from their parents as they go through speech therapy.

There are many things you can do to help your child through each stage of Speech Therapy. We are professionals in Baltimore and Houston who work with kids of all ages, and we’d love to share some tips with you to help your kid succeed.

How Can a Parent Help During Speech Therapy? 

It can be nerve-racking taking your child to a Speech Pathologist for the first time, no matter what age they are. It can be intimidating to put yourself out there and interact with new people and explore unfamiliar environments. As a parent, your first task in Speech Therapy will be to help your child become accustomed to his or her new surroundings.

Home practice is the next step in the parent’s role in speech therapy, which will help your child get closer to his or her objectives. If you’re a parent just starting out on the road to Speech Therapy, read on for some advice from us.

Helpful Steps Parents Can Take During Their Child’s Speech Therapy 

Offer Encouragement and Help  

The best thing you can do to help your child succeed in Speech Therapy is to encourage and support them. Motivate and excite your child about their upcoming Speech Therapy sessions while you’re in the car together. Show your child that you are proud of the progress they are making in the therapy session by taking an active role when necessary.

Develop a Schedule and Stick to it

Speech therapy is most effective when it is combined with regular appointments and home practice. Parents should establish and maintain at-home routines that include time for speech therapy practice activities. Some of these activities may be as straightforward as having regular conversations with your kid or reading aloud from a word list. Your child’s Speech Pathologist will advise you on the most beneficial home practice based on their specific needs.

Investing at least 30 minutes per day into speech therapy practice is strongly suggested. Stop worrying about how “perfect” it is. The time or location of speech practice is not predetermined in any way. It is possible to complete even while your child is using the restroom. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but it does have to be completed.

Applaud their SMALL Success  

Your child will have successes and milestones in Speech Therapy along the way. They’ll also be successful in the real world, whether at the supermarket or in the classroom. You should rejoice when success finally comes your way. Celebrating and praising your child’s progress in Speech Therapy will not only encourage them to continue with their therapy but will also boost their self-esteem.

There will be days when your child is struggling with Speech Therapy and may feel frustrated with themselves and others. So on the good days, rejoice with them and let them know how proud you are of their progress.

Keep an Eye Out for Signs that Your Child Needs a Break

While we do advocate for regular and frequent Speech Therapy sessions, we also recognize that a short break from therapy may be beneficial for some children. Your child will be much more motivated to continue working with their Speech Pathologist if they are able to apply what they have learned in between appointments.

When in Doubt, Get Help From Outside

Besides speech therapists, many other members of the Allied Health Professions can help your child along the way. For optimal treatment and results, your doctor may suggest involving specialists like psychologists, OTs, PTs, audiologists, and pediatricians. When this type of assistance is suggested from without, it is crucial that it be investigated and pursued.

Be Mindful of your Health and Happiness

As professionals, we at Total Speech Therapy understand how difficult it can be to prioritize your own well-being while also taking care of your children, other family members, and yourself, while also keeping up with their schedules for speech therapy and other activities. Although you have a lot going on, don’t forget to put your own health and happiness first. Even if you’ve had a rough week, remember that your child and family rely on you. In times of need, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance and make use of the resources available to you in your network.

Seeking additional information on pediatric speech therapy? Call 410-696-3301 or email Yasminah at yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com to make an appointment to learn more about the speech therapy sessions that your child will go through so that you are ready for the road ahead.

It can be frightening and overwhelming to learn that your child has autism. However, the diagnosis is just a starting point; there are many different therapy options available depending on your child’s unique needs. Over the past few decades, more research has been done on autism, and while there is still no known cure, there are a variety of evidence-based tools for treating its symptoms.

Early detection is essential because, according to research, earlier intervention usually yields better outcomes. Since autism is a spectrum disorder, every person who has it will experience it differently. Your doctor may include any of these therapies—or a combination of them—in the treatment plan they design for your family to help your child develop a range of crucial life skills.

Behavioral Therapy

Behavioral therapy has a long history of success in treating the difficult behaviors associated with autism, particularly when it is given to children at a young age. The goal of applied behavior analysis is to teach your child more effective ways to express themselves by viewing their behavior as a form of communication. For instance, if your child rushes out of the classroom at school, she might be signaling that she needs a break. A behavior therapist can identify the underlying causes of challenging behaviors and show your child more effective ways to express her needs, such as signaling for a break rather than fleeing. To ensure that your therapist is employing techniques supported by research, ask if they are trained in applied behavior analysis.

Speech Therapy

Your child can address a range of communication-related problems, including word articulation, sentence construction, and listening abilities, by working with a speech therapist. A therapist may work with your child one-on-one or in a small group with peers who are developing similar skills, depending on your child’s individual needs. The focus of a session might be on comprehending verbal instructions, reacting to social cues, asking and responding to questions, or taking turns in a conversation. Your child can receive the precise instruction, feedback, and practice he needs to improve his communication skills in an intimate, regulated setting. Additionally, speech therapists can assist you in determining whether any assistive communication devices are a worthwhile investment.

Occupational Therapy

Your child gains more independence in daily living activities with the aid of occupational therapy. Sessions may concentrate on motor skills like gripping a pencil or improving body coordination, or on life skills like eating or getting dressed. Interactive exercises are used by occupational therapists to strengthen the abilities your child needs to become more independent.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

The most popular form of therapy for autistic kids, ABA, uses techniques like positive reinforcement, meaningful rewards, and consequences to help kids with their social skills, language proficiency, and good behavior.

Some of the most common ABA goals are listed below:

  • Better social skills
  • Effective expressive and receptive communication
  • Improved hygiene and self-care
  • When playing with others, encourage cooperative behavior.
  • reducing unproductive behavior

ABA therapy is the most comprehensive program for autism intervention. In order to address issues like effective communication, skill imitation, cognitive abilities, self-regulation, recreational and interpersonal skills, behavioral management, and safety skills, ABA therapy is crucial for kids with autism.

Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)

This approach teaches autistic kids how to develop relationships with their parents and other family members. This family-based therapy includes elements of flexible thinking, social interaction, and psychology. Additionally, children must learn how to handle transitions, which can be particularly challenging. As part of the RDI program, parents receive training and act as their child’s primary therapist.

Play Therapy

When compared to play therapy for other illnesses, autism play therapy is unique. When it comes to autism therapy, therapists are much more prescriptive than they are when treating anxiety or other mental health issues. Children with autism are helped through play therapy to interact with others in a way that makes sense to them. For instance, autism has an impact on how kids interact with one another; a person with autism might focus mainly on one feature of a toy and rarely engage in pretend play.

A speech-language therapist can support children in engaging with others by assisting them in broadening their focus and approach. This kind of therapy can help a child expand their play beyond their own limited experiences and into a world of relationships and group activities. By pursuing their interests, kids can explore their surroundings, emotions, and relationships. If you are looking for a speech therapist near Baltimore, MD or Houston, TX, then Total Speech Therapy can help your kid with the best therapy in their own setting.

Sensory-Integration Therapy

This particular form of occupational therapy concentrates on the challenges many autistic children face when processing sounds, lights, textures, and other sense-related triggers. Through play-based activities, the sessions gradually increase your child’s tolerance to these anxiety-producing triggers. According to recent research, this technique may assist the brain in relearning how to react in a more controlled and positive way. According to one study, children who received sensory-integration therapy in addition to other ongoing therapies improved more than their peers who did not receive this component. Sensory-integration therapy may be a helpful, efficient way to tackle the problem head-on if your child has trouble with stimuli like the feel of food or the noise of a busy room.

Social Skills Therapy

You might choose to sign your child up for therapy sessions that concentrate on fostering and honing social skills. These groups are often led by speech therapists or autism specialists, and they provide a safe environment for children to learn and practice social skills. Children on the autism spectrum frequently require a little more guidance and feedback than typically developing children do in order to learn the unspoken rules of social interaction. Sessions give children explicit modeling and feedback, frequently through entertaining stories and programs, giving them enduring cues and reminders they can refer to as needed.

Autism is still not fully understood, but with early therapy, children can successfully develop the abilities and tools they need to thrive. A speech therapist can help direct you to the best treatment options for your family, regardless of the specific symptoms and behaviors displayed by your child.

There are different stages or methods for developing vocal abilities in young children, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. When you look at other young children of similar ages, you can see the differences between them. Although this is not the best way to conclude your child’s vocal development because all children develop at their own pace, there are clear milestones you should keep in mind and monitor.

 

Even if the teacher has warned you about stuttering, letter inversion, or distorted words, don’t panic. Consider meeting with a speech-language therapist who can assist your child with specific difficulties.

 

My child struggles to communicate:

All of these bad reflexes, such as zoning, stammering, difficulty pronouncing certain letters (the R, for example) or sounds (the ch becomes s or j), and distorted words (the roar of “r” for a car), can be corrected in a few sessions. Often, it is the fact that he is still sucking his thumb or using a pacifier that is in question: the speech therapist will primarily recommend tongue positioning work in the form of games. If there is a language delay (limited vocabulary, difficulty constructing a sentence, etc.), the follow-up will take longer: the sooner you intervene, the better.

 

Their voice is hoarse:

Dysphonia, or persistent voice disorder, means your child may shout excessively or breathe incorrectly, straining their vocal cords. Speech therapy sessions can improve the child’s vocal quality and help improve their breath control and use of voice.

 

He has reading difficulties:

In kindergarten, we can see that he does not associate a letter with a sound. In first grade, he stumbles on the syllables, jumps or confuses the letters, mixes up similar words, deciphers with difficulty, and does not understand what he reads? The child may be experiencing dyslexia. There are techniques for treating this reading disorder and assisting the child in developing compensatory strategies. Many of them connect letters and sounds to shapes and images. Books and software can also help with learning. If other problems are present, a comprehensive follow-up with a psychomotor therapist and an occupational therapist is scheduled to avoid school failure.

 

Here are some indicators to help you see a little more clearly and identify if a visit to the speech therapist would benefit your little one. Consider your child’s age and whether the signs of difficulty listed below describe your child. If this is the case, it is strongly advised that you begin the process of meeting with a speech therapist.

 

At the age of 1:

  • Your child does not or only occasionally babbles
  • He does not express his needs through sounds or gestures
  • He doesn’t smile or pay attention to his parents when they interact with him
  • He does not respond to his name

 

At the age of 1½:

Your child does not use simple words

 

At the age of 2:

  • Your child does not mimic your words or games
  • Your child’s vocabulary is limited to a few simple words
  • He does not form a sentence.
  • Your child does not ask questions.
  • Does not comprehend basic instructions.

 

At the age of 3:

  • Your child creates sentences out of only two words
  • Your child is having difficulty naming pictures or making requests
  • He does not communicate with any adults other than his parents.
  • Your child is unable to tell a familiar story or hold a brief conversation
  • He struggles to answer the questions “who,” “what,” and “where.”

 

At the age of 4:

  • Your child only speaks in short sentences of 2-3 words
  • He struggles to answer “why” and “when” questions
  • Your child has difficulty understanding long instructions without assistance
  • He has trouble grasping spatial concepts (for example, on, up, down, in)
  • Strangers find it difficult to understand him

 

At the age of 5:

  • Your child has trouble pronouncing sounds
  • Your child’s sentences lack determinants or pronouns
  • Your child has difficulty matching words in sentences
  • When your child speaks, he stutters
  • Your child struggles to tell a story
  • He has difficulty responding to your questions

 

When your child exhibits some or all of the above symptoms at the specified age, you should consider booking an appointment with a speech-language therapist near you. If you stay somewhere near Baltimore or Houston, Total Speech Therapy can help you in a great way to improve the speech capabilities of your child through their professional speech therapy.

Bringing speech therapy to the home via teletherapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is an excellent option to help the children develop their communication skills since most of their communication development occurs at home. Parents and caregivers are the primary facilitators of speech development for children, and their collaboration with a speech therapist produces optimal results because the child spends most of their time with the family and the training continues on an as-needed basis.

Speech-language pathologists can better guide parents with the appropriate activities to develop their children’s communication skills at home from early childhood to young adulthood.

 

The Role of a Speech Therapist at Home:

Parents are usually very busy, and getting to and from the center can be challenging. Total Speech Therapy, on the other hand, brings the necessary therapy to the patient’s home via teletherapy. Second, the child feels more comfortable at home and accepts treatment more easily. Finally, the parents become involved in the training process and carry on with the activities between therapy sessions. Using speech strategies at home during caregiving, playing, and other regular activities helps generalize what the child is learning in treatment.

Speech therapy does not require you to force your child to sit and learn; however, it requires a lot of time and patience on the part of the parents. When children perform activities such as playing, eating, walking, and bathing, it is an excellent opportunity to work on their communication, learning, and memory. Eventually, parents or caregivers can incorporate the therapy into more challenging tasks as the child progresses.

 

Speech Therapy Activities for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders:

The more you communicate with the child, the better the outcome. Begin with short communication sessions with the child and gradually increase their length, which can be accomplished by slowly introducing new routines and activities for the child throughout the day.

Each child’s speech therapy needs are unique. So, a speech-language therapist can develop a personalized training strategy and activities based on a family’s priorities and a child’s functional requirements.

Training at home allows parents and caregivers to learn how to best use daily activities as learning opportunities. However, communication strategies differ for children of different ages. Here are some tips to help you understand other methods:

 

#1. Speech Therapy for Children Aged 0 to 3 Years (Infants and Toddlers) 

The first thing parents can do for their children with autism is to encourage engagement and interaction rather than speech.

Parents should focus as much as possible on engagement, meaningful play, gestures, and interaction for infants and toddlers. Parents should be more animated while performing household tasks such as dressing, bathing, feeding, and playing with their children. Use animal noises and toys to attract their attention.

 

#2. Speech Therapy for Children Ages 3-5 (Preschoolers) 

Parents and caregivers of preschoolers with autism should start focusing on interactions with their children in places such as the playground, daycare, or preschool.

Use games and role-playing activities to help the child begin meaningful interactions.  Make picture cards for example, and encourage the child to match the pictures to the words.

 

#3. Speech Therapy for Children Age 6 to 12 (School Age) 

School-age children can continue interacting with their parents and improve nonverbal communication skills, such as understanding body language and facial expressions.

Use cartoons and drawings to help children express their emotions. During regular home activities, parents should act like their children’s friends and help them understand social skills and behaviors.

The speech-language specialists at Total Speech Therapy can significantly assist families and teachers in implementing various classroom strategies that increase students’ access to the curriculum and minimize the gap between their learning styles, abilities, and academic demands.

 

#4. Speech Therapy for Children Aged 12 and Up (Adolescents and Young Adults)

Transition planning requires extra effort from parents of adolescents and young adults with ASD. Work with a speech therapist to help them prepare for advanced academic, workplace, and community settings.

 

Training at home with an experienced speech therapist can result in better results for children of any age group. Total Speech Therapy is an excellent choice if you need a speech therapist in Baltimore or Houston to help improve your child’s communication and social skills. The practice has a team of dedicated, and compassionate professional speech and language therapists who provide therapy in schools, daycare centers, and home daycare centers. Contact Total Speech Therapy to assist you with your speech therapy needs!

Living healthy has always been a priority for mankind. This is the reason why the health industry is consistently working to bring wonderful solutions to face all kinds of health challenges. Though the research and innovation process has never been stopped, it still has a long way to go to crack the mysteries of many diseases and develop potential solutions. Disorders like Autism still need mountains of research to improve the health of children and adults around the world living with the diagnosis. The exact reason why a child exhibits ASD is unknown but some of the research suggests that it is a combination of genetic, non-genetic, and environmental factors. It is a kind of neurological developmental disorder prevalent in children of 18 months or younger.

What are the symptoms of ASD?

When a baby grows its response to different things in the environment improves. But in the case of a child with autism spectrum disorder, it doesn’t happen in the way it should. ASD limits the ability of a child to communicate well with the world outside. A variety of symptoms can be seen in an autistic child. Here are some of the easily noticeable symptoms which indicate the parent to seek the help of a professional speech therapist:

  • Delayed speech, and communication skills
  • Avoid eye contact
  • Can’t respond to name even after 9 months
  • Getting upset about minor changes
  • Unusual response to sound, test, and smell
  • Making strange noises
  • Unusual mood swing, or reaction
  • Strange eating, and sleeping behavior
  • Hyperactive
  • Restricted movement skills

How is autism spectrum disorder treated?

To be very frank it is a challenge still to be addressed. So, as of now there is no such proven cure available to remedy ASD. However, some therapists such as speech and language therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, occupational therapy, nutritional therapy, and even daily exercises do a lot to dissipate the symptoms of ASD. Routines including the multiple therapy suggestions listed above along with developing a routine, daily exercise, and curating positive habits as children grow into adulthood may help those diagnosed with ASD lead a fairly normal life, depending on the severity. No two cases are alike so some may need individualized care more than others. Parents, getting advice and consultation from medical professionals will always be our advice to you because some unconventional methods, if not done correctly for your child’s needs, may create trauma for your child and hinder their overall potential growth and development.

Very often it is difficult to identify ASD only from the appearance but may have a significant impact on a person’s speech, and activity. This makes speech and language therapy an important treatment option. Please do some research to make sure you get an experienced speech therapist for your child to see effective results. Total Speech Therapy with a team of professional autism therapists in Baltimore providing the best care to people suffering from ASD. The one-on-one therapy sessions in conjunction Awith a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment plans have brought a lot of honors, and awards for them. Total Speech Therapy is an autism therapy center in Maryland that strives to provide children help with their speech and language development in their very own educational (childcare centers, special programs, etc) and home environments (depending on COVID-19 company restrictions). Call 410-696-3301 or email yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com to talk to a Speech-Language Therapist and book a free consultation.

Total Speech Therapy is proud to announce and reveal to the whole world its new office at Houston, Texas. A Speech and Language Therapy practice has been relentlessly devoted to providing the best possible care and results for people who suffer from speech, language, cognitive or swallowing disorders.

Communication is the process by which people exchange information. Language is the process by which thoughts, feelings, and emotions are generated using a recognizable verbal or written system. It includes both receptive and expressive skills. During the rehabilitation process, the SLP, along with other members of the multidisciplinary team, provide quality care to help the patient reach his or her fullest physical, psychological, social, vocational, and educational potential.

Our expertise & unique approach to address a variety of causes that contribute to difficulties with speech, language, swallowing or cognition, makes us highly effective. Whether you’re at home, in adult living centers, the hospital or at schools/daycare facilities, we ensure the best possible care & results to help you reconnect with the world and with this we are proud to announce the opening of the new office in Houston to make accessibility easier. We offer individualized, comprehensive, high quality outpatient speech therapy services in Baltimore and Houston and nearby areas.

Our goal of speech, language, and cognitive-based therapy is to improve communicative effectiveness, efficiency, and naturalness. We make use of a few verified therapeutic approaches; which can be used to achieve these goals. The first is to restore lost function. This effort aims to reduce impairment and targets deficits directly. Achieving success with this approach depends on the etiology and course of the disease, as well as the type and severity of the disorder. The second approach is to promote compensatory abilities and the use of residual function. Compensation can take many forms; for example, a patient might be instructed in speech-enhancing strategies or the use of augmentative devices or alternative means of communication (gestures, functional communication board, etc). A third approach encompasses strategies to reduce a patient’s need for lost function by modifying the environment and facilitating more effective speaker–listener interactions. Through education and counseling, SLPs also help patients and their families adjust and cope.

If your child or loved one is having difficulty with communication or needs speech therapy please do not hesitate to talk to a speech-language therapist in the nearby areas.

To find a high quality speech-language pathologist, select Total Speech Therapy in Baltimore, or Total Speech Therapy in Houston, where you can better diagnose the condition of your child, yourself or an adult loved one to get better speech therapy solutions. You can either drop an email at yasminah@totalspeechtherapy.com or even call us at 410-696-3301 for personalized suggestions.