by Lisa Stephens

Created on: July 14, 2009

Have you ever imagined what it might be like to have important needs or thoughts to communicate, but being unable to express them? Then again, maybe you don't need to imagine because you are a parent of a child that struggles with speech and language problems. I am a parent of such a child. Although my son has other special needs, speech and language has always been difficult for him. Together my son and I have been on a journey for almost 10 years now, a journey that has brought many frustrations, tears and triumphs. I have learned much along the way on how to help him communicate effectively to those who are around him, especially in the school environment where communicating with his teacher and friends is important to him. Raising a child with special needs, whatever they may be, can be a life-altering experience. What I have learned raising my son is that it can also be life-affirming. Here are a few suggestions on parenting a child with speech and language disabilities that I have learned.

In order for you to be the best possible advocate for your child, you need to learn everything you possibly can about your child's specific disability. Don't just focus on the medical aspect, but find information on resources, government programs, and educational and recreational opportunities that would benefit your child. Find out what you can do to help your child and make life and learning easier for them. This is especially important in the early years form birth to age 3, when children can benefit greatly from early intervention programs.

Speech and language disabilities range from mild to severe. Reach out and obtain whatever help your child needs. This could be a speech therapist, learning sign language, or providing your child with communication boards or an augmentative communication device. It may, as in my son's case, include a combination of one or all of these. The goal is to do whatever it takes to help your child communicate their wants and their needs effectively.

Encourage a love for reading in your child. Even if they are unable to speak the words correctly, or at all, one of the best things a parent can do to encourage better development of speech and language is to read and talk to their child. Refrain from baby talk or slang words, but use clear and straightforward language, using the same tone and words as you would when speaking to anyone else.

Just because your child may have difficulty with speech and language, it does not

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>