Make Mealtimes A Communication Opportunity
Mealtimes are a great way to encourage communication naturally. Offer choices such as “apple or banana?”, model words like “more” or “finished”, and talk about what you are eating and doing. The goal isn’t to turn mealtimes into a therapy session, but to create opportunities for communication during something that is already part of the day.
Follow Their Interests During Play
Using a person’s favourite activities or interests can make communication more motivating. A child who loves dinosaurs might name them, describe what they are doing or create a story. Someone who loves cars might practise requesting, taking turns or commenting. Following their lead gives them a meaningful reason to communicate.
Build Communication Into Community Activities
Everyday outings can provide valuable opportunities to practise functional communication. At the shops, someone might choose an item, help with the shopping list or ask for help. At the park, they might greet someone, request a turn or comment on what they see. These real-world opportunities help people use communication skills in the places where they are needed most.
Small Changes Can Make A Big Difference
Families can support communication by offering choices, allowing extra time to respond, modelling language and responding to all forms of communication. Most importantly, focus on what the person can do and build from there. Communication looks different for everyone, and everyday moments are an opportunity to support people to express themselves, make choices and connect with others.
To find out more about our Speech Pathology services, please get in touch.