Speech therapy in early intervention refers to speech therapy services for infants and toddlers (0-3 years of age) at risk of or have already developed a speech and language delay. Early intervention aims to identify and treat speech & language delays as early as possible to promote optimal development and prevent further delays or challenges.
Speech therapy in early intervention includes assessing, diagnosing, and treating communication delays; these may include expressive language (talking), receptive language (comprehension), and social communication skills. A skilled speech-language pathologist will conduct individualized therapy sessions for each child and family.
The speech therapist usually conducts play-based communication-focused therapy and provides parent or caregiver education and training. Research has proven that early intervention can benefit children with speech and language delays, including improved communication abilities, increased socialization, and better academic and vocational outcomes later in life.
