We also offer specialized speech therapy as a core component of our educational initiative for children with hearing impairment. To date, over 100 children have benefited from our individualized and group therapy sessions.

INFO: Speech therapy, delivered by dedicated Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), is crucial for children with hearing impairment, regardless of their communication method – be it spoken language, sign language, or a combination. Early identification of hearing loss, ideally through newborn screening, and immediate intervention are paramount. The period from birth to approximately three years old is a critical window for language development; consistent, high-quality speech therapy during this time significantly improves outcomes for these children, fostering communication skills essential for cognitive, social, and academic success.

Our Speech Therapists employ a diverse range of techniques to address various communication and swallowing challenges:

• Articulation and Phonology Therapy helps children produce speech sounds correctly. Techniques include practicing sounds in increasing complexity, using mirrors for visual guidance, and strengthening oral motor muscles. Therapists also utilize minimal pairs, phonetic placement, and cues to refine sound production.
• Language Intervention Therapy focuses on improving understanding and use of language. Core strategies involve modelling correct language patterns (e.g., self-talk, expansion), offering choices, using visual aids, incorporating storytelling and play, simplifying language, employing repetition, and encouraging social interaction.
• Fluency Therapy aims to reduce stuttering and improve speech flow. This is achieved through fluency shaping techniques (like slowed speech and easy onset) and stuttering modification techniques (such as cancellation and pull-outs).
• Voice Therapy addresses issues with vocal quality, pitch, loudness, and resonance. It includes vocal exercises to strengthen vocal cords, proper breathing techniques, vocal hygiene education, and exercises for pitch and volume control.
• Oral Motor Therapy strengthens the muscles of the mouth, lips, tongue, and jaw essential for speech and swallowing. Techniques include facial massages, targeted exercises like blowing and chewing, and the use of specialized tools.
• Swallowing Therapy (Dysphagia Management) assists children with chewing and swallowing difficulties through specific exercises, diet modifications, and compensatory strategies.
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems provide alternative communication methods for children with limited or no verbal speech. These range from low-tech picture boards to high-tech speech-generating devices (SGDs), alongside teaching sign language.
• Cognitive-Communication Therapy addresses communication challenges linked to cognitive impairments such as memory, attention, and problem-solving, often seen after brain injuries. This therapy focuses on teaching memory strategies, attention training, developing problem-solving skills, and improving organizational skills for clearer communication.