Let’s talk about play and why it’s an effective, evidence-based model for pediatric speech-language therapy.
There is a direct approach to therapy where the child sits at a table and does drill work, answers questions, name pictures, and other specific activities that are very structured and adult-led. This approach is the least natural since the session is structured by the SLP using rigid activities and often feels like “work.” Direct modeling, questioning, and commands are also used to elicit responses. This approach is often associated with “first, then” constraints where a child has to work first, then they can get something of interest to them like play. While this approach can be effective, the child’s specific needs and intrinsic motivation take a back seat when they should be in the driver’s seat!
The play-based approach is the most natural and the most engaging since it uses material and activities that the child shows interest in. To kids, play is work! The SLP lets the child lead and uses the child’s specific interests for toys and activities to facilitate therapy targets and practice naturally so the child enjoys their session and creates more meaningful connections since direct demands and the pressure of expectation are removed. With this approach, children are more motivated to communicate and engage with the SLP and the therapy activities. Other benefits to this approach include longer duration of attention, building positive interactions, learning social skills, gaining long-term skills, and making progress toward therapy goals in a more natural setting.
The therapy approach for each child should be individualized considering their age, needs and goals, interests, and parent input!
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