Speech Pathologist Bridgette Mulhern answers this question in our Ask A Speechie series.
Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists and Psychologists often bring new and exciting games into therapy each session, and of course continue to bring in clients’ personal favourites.
At times it can be challenging for families to think about how they can continue to practice their therapy at home with their own resources which may feel old or less engaging. This is where the power of our imagination comes in to play! At home, speech pathology can be practised with just about anything, from the trusty laundry basket (as discussed by one of our senior Speech Pathologists, Kate Down, in our August issue this year) to Tupperware containers, cans of beans or a piece of string. Creativity is key!
Using everyday items not only reduces the financial burden but helps to promote children’s imaginative skills and flexibility in play too. It also helps children build their problem-solving skills.
Here is a list of a few great examples of how you can create resources that will promote speech, language and play skills:
Not only are these great skills to practice at home, they also help support children to be flexible thinkers and to use their imagination in the playground at school when engaging with friends. Children who engage in creative play develop their confidence, language and thinking skills, while building emotional understanding (Raising Children Network, 2019).
If you have any questions about how you recreate toys from your sessions using everyday items at home be sure to check in with your Speech Pathologist, Occupational Therapist or Psychologist at your next session.
References:
Raising Children Network. (2019). Preschooler creative learning and development: what to expect. Retrieved from https://raisingchildren.net.au/preschoolers/development/creative-development/preschooler-creative-development
Irvine, S. (2019). Tips for building a child’s imagination. Retrieved from https://www.firstfiveyears.org.au/early-learning/tips-for-building-a-childs-imagination