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Speech therapy is going digital. Many speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are beginning to incorporate iPhone and iPad apps into speech therapy sessions. This high-tech education helps engage children in the learning process.
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There are apps for everything from finding the nearest public restroom to keeping track of your workout routine. Lady Gaga even has her own app. A lot of these downloads are glorified time-wasters, but there are a few diamonds in the rough. If your child seems inattentive during his usual speech therapy routine, try introducing him to a speech therapy app.
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Benefits of Sign Language
Sign language isn’t just for the hearing impaired. You can use sign language to communicate with your baby to better understand his needs and wants. Children with a speech disorder can also use sign language as a type of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device. Many children with speech disorders struggle to express themselves; nonverbal communication methods can help reduce their frustration. Furthermore, sign language can facilitate the development of verbal language. Your child may benefit from using sign language alone or in conjunction with other AAC devices like picture cards or electronic AAC devices.
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The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a system to assist people in communication who are unable to do so through speech. The system uses picture cards for communication. It is one method that a child with a severe speech disorder can use to indicate his basic needs and wants. This reduces the child’s frustration and his social isolation.
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What’s a Tracheotomy?
During a tracheotomy, a surgeon will create an opening in the trachea, or windpipe. This opening is called the tracheostomy, through which a tube is inserted so that the patient can breathe. Some people are connected to a ventilator if they have trouble breathing on their own. A tracheostomy may be temporary for some patients, while for others it is a permanent condition. A tracheostomy has a profound effect on a person’s ability to communicate.
