Sometimes parents ask me how they can work on their child's speech at home. They usually want to find ways they can help improve their speech or continue at home with what little speech therapy they think they get at school (if mainstreamed). I usually tell them that they would probably be better off asking a speech pathologist, because I am not one.
Then I add that from personal experience, there are a few things they should keep in mind when correcting or trying to help their child's speech and articulation.
- Please, when you are correcting your child's speech, do not do it when your child is trying to tell you something important or wants to tell you something that they are excited about.
- When you correct their speech, please be mindful of where or how you do it. It is probably not a good idea to correct their speech in front of their friends or in public in front of strangers.
- It really should be about speech that is understandable. Do not strive for perfection.
- Do not become your child's speech therapist. They need your love and encouragement more than anything.
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Thanks, e). Very, very true. It would be best if speech practice was done at a special set-aside time and no other time (consider those other times safe zones for the child to say whatever pops into his head without fear of speech correction interruptions.)
ReplyDeleteChoose a bright, calm half-hour and don't let it drag out unless the child wants to continue. Use rewards liberally. Choose a time when the child is not tired, preoccupied or stressed. Above all, regard the child as a Beloved Son or Daughter, not as a work in progress.
oh she is so right!!! Im deaf/with hearing aids. I really hate it when my parents always try to correct my speech in front of people. It embarrassed me! And it also gives me low self-esteem and I would feel self confidence about it.
ReplyDeleteAs a former sixth grade teacher, I was very surprised one day when a student privately informed me that I said "tode" instead of "told". I didn't believe her until I caught myself doing it. My mother also did it, and I realized it just comes naturally to me. I still have to think when I say it.:) I also seem to say "poem" funny according to my grandsons.
ReplyDelete