Understanding The Difference Between Language and Speech Therapy

Understanding The Difference Between Language and Speech Therapy

Language and speech therapy in ME are two separate areas of concern. Although some children need assistance in both areas, others may only need one or the other. Thus, parents are sometimes left pondering, what is the difference between language therapy and speech therapy?

In this article, we’re providing you with a brief overview of what you should know about these two areas of therapy for your child.

 

Speech Therapy

Speech therapy focuses on helping children to improve articulation through clearer speaking. Often, this type of therapy involves a focus on how sounds and words are pronounced. By focusing on all components of the voice, professionals can address specific concerns and work with them.

For children, speech therapy sessions may occur in a small group setting or one-on-one with a licensed therapist. During the session, activities that focus upon jaw, tongue, lips, and vocal cords are all used. Through interactive, age-appropriate playing with books and other objects, children are encouraged and guided to model their speech by using correct sounds and syllables.

It’s important to keep in mind that each child is unique and needs will vary. Because of this, therapists will provide strategies and homework for families to continue work outside of scheduled therapy sessions. Common speech disorders include:

 

  • Articulation disorders. These are problems that lie within the pronunciation. Often leaving others unable to comminute with the child due to lack of understanding of what is being said.
  • Fluency disorders. Fluency involves a disruption in the flow of speech. For instance, stuttering or prolonging syllables are common in this category.
  • Voice disorders. This category focuses on the pitch, volume, and quality of the spoken voice.

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Language Therapy

Language therapy focuses on helping children to place words together in an order that makes sense. However, language therapy may also address listening skills, comprehension abilities, and the ability to follow verbal direction. There are two types of language disorders: receptive and expressive.

  • Receptive disorder therapy focuses on problems with understanding or comprehension of language
  • Expressive disorder therapy focuses on putting words together and using langue in a socially appropriate way.

 

By using pictures, objects, books, and ongoing activities, therapists engage children to stimulate language development. During this time, the correction of vocabulary and grammar is standard while utilizing repetitive exercises to develop a specific skillset further.

 

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Because every child is unique and their needs are different, it’s crucial to fully understand the issues before engaging in a program. At Watch Me Shine, our team of professionals offers superior assistance in both language and speech therapy in ME. Our goal is to foster optimal communication through intervention and services based on specific needs. For more information, contact our team at (207) 990-0163.

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