Ask A Therapist: Therapy Scheduling

Hello,

I recently attended a TalkTools training and have a question about how to implement the therapy. Specifically for children under the age of 2, what are the frequency and length of your sessions? Do you schedule weekly standing appointments, or do you schedule as needed to reassess after the child has made progress?

I have some clients interested in this therapy, but am not sure how I should schedule them.

Thank you,

Anna

Hi Anna,

In the ideal world, we should like to be able to see these kids weekly for 45 minutes sessions. At these early ages the parents need support in feeding skill development, and their children are changing so rapidly that you do not want large gaps between sessions. As you know, once the child starts using an incorrect placement it is very difficult to correct. Also, starting at 12 months we introduce the Horn, Bubble, Bite-Tube and Straw Hierarchies which need constant monitoring .

I would not choose your second option as to scheduling as progress is made, as that means the parent is responsible for determining when the progress is seen. I find those first 2 years to be critical to prevent or at least limit incorrect placements for feeding and speech.

I hope this answers your question but if not, please let me know.

Sara Rosenfeld-Johnson, MS, CCC-SLP