When you think of speech-language pathologists, you probably imagine them helping students with stutters, lisps, and other common speech difficulties. However, they also work with students to improve communication on the whole. Continue reading to learn why speech-language pathologists are an important resource for schools.

An Essential School Resource

Speech-language pathologists, also called SLPs or speech therapists, are part of a school’s special education services department. When your child sees a speech therapist through a public school, their therapist works to help them tackle their school’s curriculum. The therapist works alongside teachers and other staff to emphasize better performance in school.

A Pair of Trained Eyes

Your child’s teacher may notice that they read more slowly than other students or have difficulty communicating. A speech therapist can watch and listen to your child with a trained approach to determine the root cause. When your child’s speech therapist accurately identifies the difficulty, they can design a solution that targets it.

A One-on-One Approach

Teachers deal with classrooms full of students and often do not have the time or resources to work individually with each struggling student—that’s where speech therapy comes in. A speech therapist will work with your child on an individual or small group basis, getting to know them and their learning process. This way, the therapist can more effectively diagnose specific language difficulties and develop a detailed plan to treat your child.

A Relevant Educator

Speech therapy for students is geared toward addressing difficulties that interfere with their ability to learn. No student should get lost in the system. One role of a speech therapist is to keep students from falling through those cracks by addressing social and academic needs that affect their education. They want their students not only to stay in school, but to stay interested in school.

Speech-language pathologists are essential to a school’s success in teaching its students—all of its students. They work to ensure the curriculum is adaptable and accessible for students’ varying needs, and they approach struggling students with a positive and empathetic attitude. A good speech therapist can unlock a student’s potential and encourage them to work through frustration to achieve communication goals.