Benefits of Speech Therapy
Communication skills play an important part in life’s experiences. In elementary school, children are developing language and learning to read and write. In order for a child to learn, he has to communicate and interact with his peers and adults. Spoken language is the basis for written language. As a child grows and develops, the two types of language interact and build upon each other to improve literacy and language. This process continues throughout a person’s life. If a child has a communication disorder, they are often delayed in other areas, such as reading and math. The child may be very bright but unable to express themselves correctly, and the learning process can be affected negatively.
Speech therapy can help children learn to communicate effectively with others and learn to solve problems and make decisions independently. Communication with peers and educators is an essential part of a fulfilling educational experience. Also, children who are able to overcome communication disorders feel a great sense of pride and confidence. Children who stutter may be withdrawn socially, but with the help of therapy and improved confidence, they can enjoy a fully active social life (ASHA).
Throughout her many years of working with children, Mary Jablonski recalls two particular success stories:
A. M. had problems with /s/, /th/, /r/, and /l/ sounds when he started kindergarten. I worked with him until he was in sixth grade. He transformed from a shy and quiet child to an outgoing, cheerful, friendly, and intelligent young man. I received a letter from him some time ago, explaining that he was in Europe, performing in operas. He wanted to thank me for his speech therapy experience. Unable to produce clear speech, he would never have had the confidence or ability to be an opera singer.
C. D. had problems producing several speech sounds. She was very difficult to understand when she started therapy. I worked with her through sixth grade and watched her, too, develop into a very outgoing and enthusiastic young woman. She graduated from high school at the top of her class and was asked to name her most influential teacher. Out of all of the instructors she had in her 13 years of education, she chose me. I had given her the gift of confidence and the ability to communicate effectively and get the most out of her educational experience.
Read more about this topic: Speech And Language Pathology In School Settings
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