How to Engage a Child Who Resists Speech Therapy: Tips for Parents and Therapists







Introduction

Speech therapy may be an ideal way of helping children develop communication skills, but what happens when the child refuses to cooperate? For some reason or another, be it anxiety, boredom, or lack of motivation, motivating a child to undergo speech therapy sessions can be challenging. Here are some practical tips for parents and therapists for making speech therapy more play and less work.

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1. Build Trust First

Children can be resistant to speech therapy if they feel coerced or misunderstood. Spend time building a good relationship by discovering the child's interests, strengths, and communication style. A straightforward game or reading a favorite book together can create trust.


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2. Follow the Child's Lead

If the child is interested in dinosaurs, vehicles, or a particular television program, bring them into the therapy sessions. For example, bring in toy dinosaurs on a "dino adventure" to practice new sounds or words. Letting the child be the boss makes them feel more in control and more engaged.


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3. Make It Fun and Playful

Children learn through play. Turn speech activities into games, songs, or stories. Use colorful flashcards, interactive apps, or a game of hide-and-seek with speech targets. The more fun the activity, the more the child will be likely to engage.

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4. Use Positive Reinforcement

Praise every little success. Even if the child doesn't get the word correct, praise them for attempting it. A reward system can be useful if appropriate—stickers, a small toy, or a bit more playtime can make a child want to keep trying.


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5. Break It Down

If a child is feeling overwhelmed, break it down. Do it one tiny step at a time, whether that is one individual sound or a short word. Gradually build up to harder things.


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6. Engage the Family

Parents and siblings play an important role in supporting speech therapy within the home setting. Share strategies and activities with the family so that they can assist in making progress outside of sessions.


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7. Be Patient and Flexible

Progress will not be made overnight, especially with children who are opposed to therapy. Be patient, adjust strategies accordingly, and remember that each child's process is unique.


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Final Thoughts

It's not always simple to engage a child in speech therapy, but by gaining their trust, making it enjoyable, and gearing activities towards their interests, you can make it a positive and productive learning experience. Reward every small achievement—because every step in the right direction counts!

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