Early Intervention Part 2: What’s Next?

So you’ve taken the plunge, you’ve reached out to a speech therapist, had an evaluation, and now you’re wondering… what’s next? Is this a one-and-done kind of thing, or is your kid about to start some sort of speech boot camp? (Spoiler: There’s no boot camp. Unless you count practicing words in the car while bribing them with snacks.)

Once your child is evaluated, the therapist will create a plan tailored to their needs. Some kids might just need a few sessions to get on track, while others benefit from ongoing therapy. But here’s the cool part—therapy isn’t just about the time spent in sessions. The biggest impact actually happens at home!

Think of it like this: If your child only practiced soccer during team practice but never kicked a ball around at home, progress would be slow, right? Same deal with speech. The real magic happens when parents get involved and reinforce what the therapist is working on. And don’t worry, this doesn’t mean turning your home into a classroom. It’s about weaving speech practice into everyday life. Talking at the grocery store, naming objects while playing, or singing songs. These little things add up in a big way!

Also, let’s talk expectations. Some kids make rapid progress, while others take their time. It’s not a race. The goal isn’t just more words, but clearer communication, better social interactions, and more confidence. And that’s something worth celebrating, no matter how fast or slow it happens.

So if you’re in the early intervention journey, just remember: you’re not alone, progress looks different for every child, and the best thing you can do is keep engaging, encouraging, and celebrating the little wins along the way. Your kiddo is on their own unique path, and that’s exactly where they’re meant to be.