• May 18, 2025
• Resources
• Evolution Supports Services
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Traditionally, speech therapy is guided by trained professionals like Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs). But more families are now exploring ways to support their child’s communication development at home. Whether it’s due to long wait times, financial barriers, or a desire to be more hands-on, parent-led speech therapy is becoming a more common and empowering option.

Speech Therapy Basics

Speech therapy focuses on improving a person’s communication skills. This includes speech (how we say sounds and words), language (understanding and expressing ideas), social communication (how we use language in social contexts), and in some cases, feeding and swallowing.

A child’s therapy plan is typically created and overseen by an SLP. These professionals assess the child’s communication abilities and design an individualized plan to support progress. Sessions might focus on expanding vocabulary, improving articulation, developing sentence structure, or encouraging turn-taking in conversations.

Can Parents Really Do Speech Therapy at Home?

Yes, with the right tools and coaching, parents can help their children improve communication skills through everyday interactions. In a parent-implemented model, the SLP works closely with the family to identify key goals. The SLP will then coach parents on specific strategies they can use during daily routines such as mealtimes, play, or Storytime.

Some techniques an SLP might teach parents include:

• Modelling correct speech and language
• Expanding on the child’s attempts (e.g., Child: “Car!” Parent: “Yes! That’s a red car!”)
• Using visual supports like pictures or gestures
• Encouraging turn-taking and back-and-forth interaction
• Creating opportunities for the child to communicate (e.g., putting a toy just out of reach)

What Does Parent Coaching Look Like?

During parent coaching sessions, the SLP uses a framework similar to Behavioural Skills Training (BST), which includes:

• Instruction – The SLP explains the strategy or activity.
• Modelling – The SLP demonstrates the skill with the child or a toy.
• Role Play – The parent practices while the SLP observes.
• Feedback – The SLP gives encouragement and suggestions.

This process empowers families to feel confident and capable of supporting their child’s speech development between professional sessions.

Keeping Track of Progress

Progress in speech therapy depends on consistency and observation. Parents are often asked to collect simple data—for example, how many times their child uses a new word or attempts a target sound. This helps the SLP adjust the plan and identify what’s working well.

If collecting data feels overwhelming, it’s okay to speak up. SLPs can offer simpler alternatives and guide parents toward methods that suit their routines.

Can Families Access Funding for Parent Coaching?

In Toronto, families can access government-funded support through the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) to help cover the cost of parent coaching. To qualify, the therapy must be supervised by an approved clinician. At Evolution Support Services, our team includes qualified professionals who meet these requirements and provide personalized guidance to help families implement effective, evidence-based strategies at home.