School-Age Speech Therapy

School-age speech therapy provides specialized support for children and adolescents ages 3 to 18 years old who experience difficulties with speech, language, or communication. At this stage, therapy is often focused on building the skills needed for success in school, meaningful social interactions, and long-term independence. It supports a wide range of needs from articulation and language development to social communication, literacy, and fluency.

What is the Goal?

The primary goal of school-age speech therapy is to support development in key areas of communication that affect a student’s ability to participate and succeed in school and everyday life. These areas include:

Speech sound production (articulation)
Understanding and using language (receptive and expressive language)
Social communication (pragmatic language)
Fluency (e.g., stuttering)
Voice
Literacy and written language support (as related to communication)
Feeding and swallowing concerns (if present)

Therapy is individualized to meet the specific needs of each student, taking into account their strengths, challenges, and learning style.

What is the SLP's Role?

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in EI are qualified to provide services to families and their young children who demonstrate, or are at risk for developing, delays, or disabilities in communication, speech, language, cognition, emergent literacy, and/or feeding and swallowing.

Some appropriate roles for the SLP include:

Engaging in prevention and early identification
Developing a plan for implementing services and supports
Provide ongoing screening and diagnostic testing
Providing and educating parents with parent training and resources

What is the SLPA's Role?

A Speech-Language Pathology Assistant (SLPA) plays a vital role in supporting licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the assessment, treatment, and management of individuals with communication disorders. SLPAs work under the supervision of SLPs and assist in delivering therapy services to clients across various settings, including schools, hospitals, and private practices. SLPAs typically hold an associate or bachelor degrees in speech-language pathology.

Some appropriate roles for the SLPA include:

Therapy Implementation: SLPA's carry out treatment plans developed by the SLPs, helping clients practice speech and language skills through structured activities and exercises.
Data Collection: They monitor client progress by collecting data on performance during sessions, which assists SLPs in evaluating the effectiveness of treatment and making necessary adjustments.
Communication: SLPAs serve as a bridge between clients and SLPs, facilitating communication and ensuring that clients and their families understand the therapy process and goals.