Speech Therapy Session 1

As I've mentioned before, Beau qualified for one hour per week of speech services through Georgia's early intervention program.

Yesterday was his first official session and I want to document it so that I won't forget.  We chose to go the route of early intervention mainly because they provide services in the home and the cost is much more affordable than private services in our area.

Beau had just woken up from nap when the therapist arrived.  I had planned for him to have a few more minutes to wake up, but the therapist arrived about 15 minutes early.  I guess early is better than late.

Beau was definitely apprehensive and knew that this was more than just a play date.  He did cry for about 20 minutes, but he finally calmed down and interacted.

She started with bubbles, as I suspect most speech therapists do.  In addition to being fun and playful, bubbles allow for a variety of simple language....bubble, pop, up, etc.

Beau enjoyed playing with the bubbles.  We also played with his play food and with his blocks.  This session was mostly about building rapport with the therapist.  She did bring a big bag of her own toys/activities, but we didn't use any of them this time.

Towards the end of the session, Beau and I received our first assignment.  One thing the therapist is going to focus on is teaching Beau to make a request.  Since he doesn't have enough words yet to ask for all of the things he needs, we are starting with pictures.

She would like me to take pictures of a few of his favorite toys.  Then put the toys in a box that Beau can't open and attach the pictures to the outside of the box.  When Beau wants one of the toys, he will have to request it by point to the picture.  Eventually he will be required to attempt the word/say the word.

This same strategy can be used on the refrigerator when Beau wants something...milk, water, grapes, etc.