Stepping into the unknown can be daunting—especially when it involves your child’s well-being. At Each Speech Pear Plum, we understand how nerve-wracking the first speech therapy session can feel for both you and your little one. That’s why we’ve tailored each step to ensure a warm, reassuring introduction to speech therapy that eases anxiety and fosters an environment of growth and comfort. Here’s what you can expect during your child’s first visit to our Brisbane-based practice.
Arrival: A Warm Welcome
From the moment you step through the doors of Each Speech Pear Plum, our priority is to make you feel at home. Located under our cottage-style house, our clinic is designed to feel less like a medical facility and more like a visit to a friend’s cozy home. Our indoor and outdoor therapy spaces encourage a sense of adventure and fun. We understand the importance of a first impression, and we strive to make it as positive as possible because we know that a relaxed child is more open to engagement.
The Setting: Made for Play
Our unique therapy environment is tailored to put your child at ease. Children are often delighted to find that they're not walking into a stark, clinical setting but rather a playful, gently stimulating space. Whether it’s the lure of our colourful cubby house outdoors or the array of engaging toys and books inside, the therapeutic space at Each Speech Pear Plum is designed to ignite your child’s curiosity and playfulness. The flexibility of moving freely between indoor and outdoor areas allows children to guide their session based on where they feel most comfortable, making therapy feel more like playtime.
Introductions: Building a Bond
Your child’s first session is crucial for building a trusting relationship with their therapist—me, Erin. I’m not just a clinician; I'm also a mum, and I bring that nurturing, empathetic approach to each session. I take my time getting to know your child, understanding their likes, dislikes, and what makes them tick. This session is less about formal assessments and more about developing a connection that will set the tone for future sessions. It's important that they see me as a friend and ally in their learning journey.
Assessment: Gentle Observations
The initial meeting focuses on gentle, play-based assessments. These are woven seamlessly into activities that your child finds enjoyable, so they may not even realise they’re being assessed. My approach is observational and non-intrusive, aimed at understanding your child’s baseline abilities in speech, language, and communication in a stress-free way. This might look like discussing a picture book they find interesting or playing a game that stimulates conversation.
Parent Involvement: You’re Part of the Team
At Each Speech Pear Plum, we view parents as essential partners in their child’s therapy. During the first session, you’ll have the option to be directly involved. Sit in and engage, or observe from a distance—whatever makes you and your child most comfortable. I’m here to provide support and answer any questions you might have. It’s a perfect time to discuss your aspirations for your child’s therapy and any particular concerns or goals you might wish to address.
Goal Setting: Personalised for Progress
After the initial introductions and assessments, we’ll take some time to chat about the observed strengths and areas for growth. Together, we’ll start to formulate a personalised plan tailored to your child’s needs and interests. The goal-setting process is collaborative and dynamic, aimed at creating achievable, motivating targets that encourage your child’s communication development.
Wrapping Up: Knowing What Comes Next
As we conclude the first session, we’ll discuss the next steps. This includes the frequency of future visits, strategies to use at home, and any resources that might be beneficial. You'll receive a summary of our observations and a proposed therapy plan. We schedule a follow-up to discuss progress and adjust our approach as needed, ensuring that the therapy remains engaging and effective for your child.
Confidence and Comfort: Our Promise
Our main goal during the first session—and every session thereafter—is to ensure that you and your child leave feeling understood, supported, and confident in the journey ahead. Many parents have shared how comforting it is to see their child engage happily and how reassured they feel knowing their child’s needs are being met with expertise and care.
Parenting a child who needs speech therapy can bring a unique set of challenges and concerns, but with Each Speech Pear Plum, you are never alone. We are committed to walking this path with you, providing support, education, and care that extends far beyond the therapy sessions.
Thank you for trusting us with your precious ones. Together, we’re setting the foundation for a future where every child can communicate confidently and joyously. Welcome to the Each Speech Pear Plum family—we’re thrilled to have you aboard!
For more information or to book an assessment, visit Each Speech Pear Plum or contact us directly. We’re here to support your child’s journey to better communication, ensuring they have the most fun along the way.
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