Speech therapy is treatment of communication disorders such as speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing challenges in individuals of all ages, from infants to the elderly. In Wylie, speech therapy for the pediatric population is available in the East Plano Clinic of Speech & Occupational Therapy of North Texas, www.speechandot.com.
Speech Disorder is defined as an impairment of the articulation of fluency, speech sounds or voice (ASHA, 2008). It is amazing that we develop precise coordination of muscle actions to produce specific sounds that can be recognized as speech. Speech development is a gradual process. According to research, 8 to 9% of children have a speech sound disorders such as articulation or phonological disorder(nih.gov).
Language Disorder is defined as impaired comprehension of or use of spoken, written or other symbol systems (ASHA, 2008). The prevalence of language difficulty in preschool children ranges between 2% and 19% according to ASHA research review. Language challenges in children that are moderate to severe are associated with long-term difficulties which effect learning and behavior. If a child has a language disorder, it is important to seek treatment to help him or her reach their full potential.
Cognitive-Communication Disorder is defined as difficulty with any aspect of communication that is affected by disruption of cognition (ASHA). Cognition is associated with the function of attention, perception, memory, organization, and executive functioning. If a child has difficulty with cognition he or she is more likely to have challenges with self-regulation, social interactions, academics and functional daily living skills. So again, treatment is very important for future success!
Wylie speech therapy in the public schools may help with some of these children. However, public school guidelines may not provide for treatment for children at one or one and one-half standard deviations from the mean. This would mean that a child may truly need treatment, but would have to seek help outside of the public school system. So a child with a mild to moderate, articulation, stuttering, language or processing disorder may need to seek services in a private setting. Children with more significant challenges with a disorder more than one and one half standard deviations under the mean may get some speech therapy through the school district but would benefit greatly from additional treatment not provided at school.
If you know or suspect that your child may need speech therapy or occupational therapy, Speech & Occupational Therapy of North Texas has a clinic location very near Wylie. We have several highly experienced Speech-language pathologists who evaluate and treat children with speech, language, cognitive-communication and swallowing disorders. Our speech pathologists have master’s degrees in Communication Disorders, as well as a Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) and a Texas License. Our model focuses on training and supporting families as well as providing direct treatment to each child so that we can encourage the greatest generalization of skills into the family and community. We are in network with several major insurance companies and also accept private pay. Please contact us at 972-424-0148 if we can help you! Visit us on the web at www.speechandot.com to learn more or to complete our child development checklist.