Get Ready for Your Child’s First Speech Therapy Session

Can I Help You Get Ready for Your Child’s First Speech Therapy Session?

Are you ready to feel comfortable and prepared for your child's first speech therapy session? I’ve got you covered with a simple "preplist" that will help ensure both you and your child feel at ease during this important milestone. Dropping off your preschooler anywhere for the first time can be a bit nerve-wracking, and speech therapy is no different. Some parents and kids breeze through it, but for others, it can be a bigger adjustment. Using my "preplist" can take the edge off, helping you and your child feel more confident and comfortable with this new step.

1. Share your contact info directly with the therapist.

While your speech therapist likely has your contact details on file, it’s always a good idea to hand them your cell number in person. Writing it down on a sticky note that they can easily slip into your child’s session folder means they’ll have quick access to it if needed. Knowing that they can contact you with ease, in the highly unlikely event they need to, can be comforting for you.

2. Remind the therapist about any allergies.

Even though you’ve filled out allergy information on medical forms, it never hurts to remind the therapist directly. As a speech therapist myself, I can tell you that I keep track of many kiddos, and while I don’t use food in therapy, there’s always a slim chance of cross-contamination on surfaces. Whether your child has a food allergy, latex sensitivity, or even a bee sting allergy, a gentle reminder ensures it’s fresh in your therapist’s mind and can offer you peace of mind during the session.

3. Share your child’s favorite things.

If your child tends to feel anxious or hesitant in new situations, giving the therapist a heads-up can make a big difference. You can also share what your child loves most—whether it’s a favorite toy, activity, or character. This helps the therapist prepare with items or activities that will make your child feel more at home. Not only will this make things easier for your child, but it also helps the therapist build a quick connection that can set a positive tone for future sessions.

4. Plan a reward for after the session.

For kids who might be a little nervous, planning a reward for after the session can help boost their confidence. Some may see it as bribery, but I prefer to call it a reward! Therapy time is precious, and we want our children to feel ready and open to the experience. Knowing that there’s something fun planned after the session—like a trip to the park, a favorite snack, or picking a movie to watch—can provide that extra motivation to make the first session go smoothly. Once therapy becomes a routine, you can naturally phase out the rewards.

Conclusion: You’ve Got This!

Preparing for your child's first speech therapy session doesn't have to be daunting. By following my "preplist," you’ll feel more confident and ready to take on this important step. Whether it’s sharing your contact info, reminding the therapist of any allergies, or offering insight into your child’s favorite things, these small steps can ease any first-day jitters for both you and your child. With a little preparation, you’ll set the stage for a smooth and positive experience that helps your child feel comfortable as they begin their journey toward improved communication and speech development.