Congratulations! You’ve taken the first step and made an appointment to see the Speech Pathologist. So, what can you do to help your child to know what to expect?
- Know where you’re going
That might sound obvious, but we have all found ourselves running late to an appointment with an unreliable satNav taking us anywhere but our destination! Arriving on time and without confusion will help both you and your child to feel relaxed before the appointment even begins.
- Bring any necessary paperwork
If you haven’t already returned them, please bring your completed case history form and any other relevant documents (eg. reports from other professionals, IEPs, GP care plan referral). Jot down any questions or concerns you have and bring them to the appointment as well to discuss with the Speech Pathologist.
- Parents are welcome!
Parents are always welcome to observe the assessment. During informal assessment, the Speech Pathologist will often observe the child interacting with their parent. It is important that parents don’t comment or try to help their child during formal testing – often children must get a set number of items incorrect before testing can be discontinued, so don’t be concerned if your child makes mistakes. Sometimes parents say that their child performs better when they are not in the same room. The Bensville clinic room has a large adjacent playroom which can be used either by parents who prefer not to be present in the clinic room, or for siblings (under parent supervision). Parents can hear what is happening in the clinic room which helps to keep them informed about where the assessment is up to, and they can move between the two rooms as necessary.
- What will happen during the session?
Initial assessments usually begin with a game/informal play and a chat with parents. It may just look like fun, but a lot of information can be gathered during play-based activities. If formal assessment is indicated, this will be done in the clinic room sitting at a table and chairs. Your child will be shown pictures and be asked about them. They may be read a story and asked about the story.
- Talk to your child about what to expect
Use positive language, and tell them it will be fun! Tell them that they are going to play and look at books. You might like to explain to older children that the Speech Pathologist is someone who helps children with their listening and talking, but avoid telling children that they will need to talk as it may create pressure and affect their interaction with the therapist. Showing them photos on the website will also familiarise them with the clinic and means they will know a ‘familiar face’ at their appointment.
- Bring a favourite toy
Many children open up when they start talking about their favourite toy, game or interest. It can be a great ice-breaker, and sometimes teddies even do a great job of ‘talking’ to the Speech Pathologist on behalf of their owners!
- Feedback
You will be given general verbal feedback on the day of the appointment. Often formal testing takes time to score and analyse before specific feedback about performance can be given. Parents will be mailed a report within two weeks of the assessment (either a brief checklist style complimentary report, or a comprehensive report if requested – which is usually the case for children entering or attending school). Following this, a phone consultation will be arranged. This gives the opportunity for the Speech Pathologist to discuss and explain assessment findings and talk about recommendations, and for parents to ask questions.
As always, please contact me if you have any concerns or questions about your child. I look forward to hearing from you!
