Need help with Early Interaction & Play?

We provide play based early intervention therapy for children on the autistic spectrum (ASD), children who are “late talkers” and children who are at risk of speech and language delays.

 

This clinic delivers DIR Floortime – Developmental, Individual Differences, Relationship-based therapy for children with difficulties engaging in the acts of social and communicative play, preventing experiences and learning of speech and language . The intervention is called Floortime because the therapist/parent gets down on the floor with the child to play and interact with the child at their level. This approach is often provided to children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. To find out more https://www.stanleygreenspan.com/

 

Strategies and resources are provided from the Hanen Progarm: It Takes Two to Talk  to facilitate language learning for children 0-5 years who present with a delay in language onset or development. Through education and one-on-one therapy with the child we provide program knowledge and modelling for parents who provide ongoing support to their young children at home. Parents/Learning Allies are very involved in the sessions and take home practical strategies to help their children develop language naturally throughout their day together.  To find out more http://www.hanen.org/Programs/For-Parents/It-Takes-Two-to-Talk.aspx

 

Augmentative or Alternative Communication (AAC) is a MUST intervention strategy for any child struggling to communicate. AAC helps reduce the perceived expectation of communication while facilitating new, hopefully easier strategies. You will receive guidance and education to assimilate AAC into every day, to support emotions, sensory regulation and develop language as temporary or longer term means of communication, for your late talker or child on the Autism Spectrum. Research shows that use of AAC may aid in the development of natural speech and language (Lüke, 2014; Romski et al., 2010; Wright, Kaiser, Reikowsky, & Roberts, 2013) and reduce a child’s frustration.

 

We embrace all communication styles, specifically supporting both analytic language processors and Gestalt Language Processors (GLP). Whether the client builds language word-by-word or learns through meaningful “chunks” and scripts, we use neurodiversity-affirming practices to meet them where they are. By following the child’s lead and removing the pressure to “perform” or comply, we foster a safe environment where self-confidence grows naturally. Our goal is to provide authentic support that honours the unique processing style, ensuring they feel heard and understood.

Here are some guidelines that may help you when considering if your child has a delay in early language onset or development to determine if they would likely benefit from language intervention through play:

A guide to 12 month Language Milestones (SPA-2019-12monthsA4)

A guide to 18 month Language Milestones (SPA-2019-18monthsA4)

A guide to 24 month Language Milestones (SPA-2019-2yearsA4)

A guide to 36 month Language Milestones (SPA-2019-3yearsA4)

Speech Pathology Australia Fact Sheet: Helping Your Baby Talk

  • What's next?

    • Assessment
      • Hearing and vision assessment may be recommended prior to intervention
      • Comprehensive speech and language assessment
      • Play Assessment Scale/Checklist
      • Speech assessment may be recommended – go to speech development.
    • Intervention
      • Play based therapy intervention
      • Recommended intensity of sessions will depend on parental/allies needs and involvement
      • Home visits may be recommended