Parents often wonder why speech therapy sometimes looks like “just” play. The reason is simple: children learn best through play. By exploring, imitating sounds, and experimenting, kids develop speech, vocabulary, problem-solving, and social skills—all while having fun.

Games and activities, from “Peek-a-boo” to building a ball maze, help children practice sounds, follow directions, learn sequencing, and anticipate what comes next. Play keeps learning light and enjoyable, allowing repeated practice in a fun, engaging way.

Most importantly, play builds strong relationships between therapists and children. That’s why therapy often looks like play: it taps into children’s curiosity, interests, and joy.

For more on the power of play, read the full article.

Years ago, I walked into a family’s home, and the first thing the mother said was, “He’s shy.” I responded, “Oh, I’m shy too. Sometimes I don’t feel like talking.”

For children to feel comfortable speaking—or even just playing—we first need to ensure they feel safe, accepted, and understood for who they are and how they communicate. This doesn’t mean we avoid challenges; it means we find the right way to challenge each child, tailored to their unique needs. The “just right” challenge, presented in an accessible and supportive way, helps unlock communication.

By acknowledging shyness and making it okay, children are more willing to speak. Conversely, pressuring them to perform—through constant questioning or commands like “Say ‘ball’”—can make an already difficult task stressful. Instead, limiting questions, validating their chosen method of communication, and allowing space for exploration encourages children to take risks and express themselves.

I love these toys! Cause-and-effect toys, like the marble run, help children develop logic and anticipation. They get plenty of repetition from activities like dropping balls into a muffin pan—put in, put in… watch them fly!

Books with manipulatives and interactive games, like Roll and Play, engage children while offering countless opportunities to explore new concepts, practice skills, and have fun.

Some children take a little longer to start talking—and that can be completely okay. “Late talkers” are toddlers who understand language well but use fewer words than expected for their age. While many late talkers catch up on their own, others may need a bit of extra support to build strong communication skills.

Early speech and language skills are the foundation for learning, social connection, and confidence. If your child isn’t using many words, combining words, or seems frustrated when trying to communicate, a speech-language evaluation can provide clarity and peace of mind. Early support doesn’t mean something is “wrong”—it simply gives your child tools to succeed.

Trust your instincts. If you have questions about your child’s speech or language development, a speech-language pathologist can help guide the next steps and support your child’s voice as it grows.

Many parents notice early differences in how their child communicates and begin to wonder if autism may be part of the picture. These concerns are common, and noticing them early is important.

Some young children with autism may use few words, rely more on gestures, or have difficulty engaging in back-and-forth interaction. Others may repeat words or phrases, use language inconsistently, or seem to understand more than they can express. Communication differences can look very different from one child to another.

It’s important to know that speech delay and autism are not the same. What often stands out in autism is how a child uses communication to connect with others, not just how many words they say. Early support can make a meaningful difference. 

Art can be a powerful tool in therapy, especially for young children who may not yet have the words to express themselves. Through drawing, painting, and play-based art activities, children can share ideas, emotions, and needs in ways that feel natural and safe.

In speech and language therapy, art supports communication, attention, and interaction. Creating together encourages skills like turn-taking, requesting, and commenting, while also reducing pressure and helping language emerge more freely.

Art-centered therapy honors how children learn best—through creativity, exploration, and play—giving them meaningful ways to communicate when words are hard.

Some children learn language in a different way called gestalt language processing. Instead of building language one word at a time, these children learn and use language in larger chunks or phrases they have heard before, such as lines from songs, books, or everyday routines.

You might notice your child repeating phrases that seem out of context or using the same scripts across different situations. This is not random or meaningless—it is a valid way of learning language. Over time, with support, children can learn to break these phrases down and use language more flexibly.

In speech therapy, gestalt language processors are supported through modeling natural, meaningful phrases and honoring the child’s communication attempts. The focus is on connection, understanding, and helping language grow in a way that matches how the child learns best.

Many parents hesitate to ask for help when they notice speech or communication concerns. Worry, embarrassment, or fear of being judged can make it hard to reach out—but needing support does not mean something is wrong with your child or with your parenting.

Speech therapy is not a sign of failure. It’s a resource. Just like tutoring, physical therapy, or extra support at school, speech therapy helps children build skills in a way that meets them where they are.

Every child develops differently. Some need a little extra support to find their voice, and getting help early can make a meaningful difference. Asking questions, seeking guidance, and accepting support are acts of care—not weakness.

At Sure Talks A Lot, we’re here for your speech and communication needs. Whether you’re just starting to ask questions or ready to seek support, you don’t have to navigate it alone.