EC Speech Therapy
Children
Is my child's speech or language delayed?
Over 42 million Americans suffer from disorders of hearing, speech or language. Your child may benefit from a speech language evaluation if he is too impulsive to quietly sit still and listen to a story or follow directions. Children who sound different than their peers because of stuttering, voice disorders or echolalia may also be helped. If your child is not able to express his thoughts or feelings consider asking your pediatrician for a referral. Physicians often refer children who have autism, verbal apraxia, developmental delays, hearing loss or swallowing problems too.
TRUST YOUR INSTINCT
By age 1 year- Children use one or two real words by their first birthday. They establish eye contact and listen when spoken to. They recognize their own name.
By age 2 years- Children talk about things in 2-3 word sentences. They point to pictures when read to and identify body parts. Children begin to ask "what' and "why" questions. Negatives such as "no" are used.
By age 3 years- Children have a vocabulary of 1,000 words. They speak in 3-4 word sentences and tell simple stories. Prepositions (under/on) and opposites (up/down) are understood. They follow two part directions, such as "Put the car under the table."
By age 4 years- Their 4-5 word sentences are easily understood by strangers. "Who" and "Why" questions emerge to learn about the world. Children are able to point to primary colors and geometric shapes. They do not get frustrated when asked to explain something.
By age 5 years- Children communicate easily with adults and children. They use 5-6 word sentences giving many details. Questions are asked to obtain information. Children can state their home address.
Call today for a comprehensive speech language evaluation.
Adults
Is a loved one, family member or friend just not the same person anymore? Wandering, catastrophic outbursts, incontinence, hoarding and disorientation are new attempts at communicating their needs. We can help you understand the frustration of their situation and identify new ways to reduce these episodes. Understanding is the key to helping someone you love adjust to change. At ElderCom, you learn to preserve the individual's dignity and sense of belonging while communicating new limits to establish a safe yet familiar environment.
CHANGES TO LOOK FOR
Memory deficits- forgetting loved ones, misplacing objects, forgetting place and time
Swallowing disorders- coughing or choking during meals, weight loss or drooling
Expressive language disorders- slurred speech, word finding difficulties or problems stating needs and wants
Receptive language disorders- not following directions, being unable to follow conversations or TV shows
Reading or writing changes- not being able to take phone messages, no longer wanting to read the newspaper or write letters
Cognitive linguistic skills- not being able to manage money, cook meals, or complete a task
Diagnostic testing is administered to determine baseline communication, cognition and swallowing skills. Results are reviewed with the individual and family. A custom plan is designed and communication partners are trained to ensure the highest level of function in the home.