Tips for Teletherapy Success
In my last post, I mentioned that the first several therapy sessions may involve building or rebuilding client rapport. These sessions serve as a chance to catch up with our clients or get to know them for the first time. Once I sense that my client feels comfortable and focused enough, I begin transitioning to targeting their speech and language goals.
We understand that parents want their children to make the most out of their sessions. So we’ve created a list of tips for parents to help set expectations for a successful speech teletherapy session.
1. Parents—Do a little preparation before each session.
Here are some things to consider prior to the start of each session:
Bathroom: It may be beneficial to have your child take a bathroom break.
Snacks: I’ve requested that snacks try to be completed prior to the session, especially for my kiddos working on speech sounds. Several of my parents have used a snack/treat AFTER the session as a reinforcer to motivate their child to complete the session.
Work Environment: A good work environment can really help our children in learning and remaining focused. Several of my clients complete their sessions at a “work station,” which usually consists of a table/desk and chair in an area of the house with strong internet connection. For children who enjoy playing with buttons and fidgeting with screens, parents may instruct their children to not touch the screen for the duration of the session.
Not every session will run perfectly -- we understand that there may be some bumps along the way. However, I’ve seen much higher rates of engagement and focus when these preparation tips have been put into place.
2. Parents—We encourage you to be present and participate.
Some children may have more difficulty than others in remaining focused and engaged throughout the session. It’s helpful when parents are present to redirect their child or offer motivation (such as high-fives or a quick break.) Parents can also play a part in utilizing strategies or modeling throughout the session, especially for younger clients.
During the last several minutes of each session, I find it helpful to check in with parents to discuss progress and any areas of concerns they have seen outside of therapy.
3. Parents—Movement throughout the session is expected (and allowed!)
No matter the age, every one of my clients has roamed around at some point during the session. Some clients may stand up and move out of the camera’s view. Some may exclaim, “I have to go get something!” and return a minute later, with a toy or material in hand. Some may move close to the camera and make their silliest faces, quickly making them distracted. Tip: Parents, most online platforms have an option to minimize self-view, meaning your child will see less of themselves and a larger picture of the clinician!
Some movement is to be expected and allowed. In my sessions, I like to include quick breaks in between activities that incorporate movement. Songs such as “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes” or “The Hokey Pokey” are quick and efficient examples.
An activity I’ve found to be extremely fun for my clients is participating in a Scavenger Hunt. I’ve used this activity for my clients working on speech sounds–they search throughout their home for words containing our target sounds. (This activity is always a hit!) In the event that their child does exit the session for an extended period of time, it’s helpful for parents to remain either in the session or nearby.
Our Role In Creating a Positive, Enriching Experience for Every Child
At the end of the day, your child’s Speech Language Pathologist recognizes that this is a challenging time for all of us…kids included! We are experts at adapting our activities to match what a child needs in that moment. There is no such thing as a perfect session, but a good session is one where the child has whatever support they need to engage in a positive way.
Communication skills blossom when children are having fun and connecting with the world around them. Our goal at Synapse Pediatric Therapy is to work with you to create a positive, enriching experience for every child—whether that’s online or in-person.
