How Speech Specialist Near Me & Therapy Works for Children with CHARGE
CHARGE syndrome although rare, can have immense effect on the developmental areas of a child. Among these, speech and language skills are often among the most impacted. That is why parents and caregivers of children with this condition often look for a “speech specialist near me” to provide therapy needed in order to assist with their communication development.
CHARGE Syndrome: What it is and Why it affects speech and language?
CHARGE syndrome, as mentioned above, is a rare genetic disorder. It is an acronym for a set of conditions that includes coloboma, heart defects, atresia of the choanal area, retardation of growth, genital and ear abnormalities. As such, it affects hearing, vision, breathing and swallowing of the child. As a result, one would expect speech and language challenges.
Hearing loss is a common condition observed in kids with CHARGE syndrome. As such, this makes it difficult for them to reproduce sounds that are essential to learning speech and language. Moreover, vision issues can restrict them from observing facial expressions or gestures related to speech and object correlation. Additionally, children with this syndrome can experience mouth or airway issues that result in difficulty forming sounds. Because of this, a “speech specialist near me” and therapy custom-planned for this syndrome and the specific child are necessary.
How a “Speech Specialist Near Me” and Therapy Can Help
Speech and language therapy with the assistance of a speech specialist “near me,” supports both spoken and alternative communication methods. It begins with the accurate assessment of the child’s condition and specific challenges. The strengths and needs of every child will be evaluated by a therapist. Based on this data, a personalized therapy plan can be created which may involve vocabulary development, accenting practice, as well as the development of sentence construction. In some cases, individuals are also put on feeding or breathing therapy.
Alternative Means of Communication
Unfortunately, not all kids with CHARGE syndrome can quickly (or ever) develop oral communication skills. In cases such as these, sign language and tools such as picture boards, and electronic devices may be introduced. This will allow the child to express themselves as they learn to speak. When children can relate to their friends and family and feel understood, they improve their social interaction as well.
Advantage of Early Intervention
This syndrome is be detected very early in life. Therefore, early intervention is also possible and, in fact, encouraged. This is because starting therapy as soon as the child starts exploring their surroundings will provide them with an opportunity to develop before any counter productive habits are formed. Furthermore, parents and carers are learn activities to adopt at home to assist children advance quickly.
Family Support and Building Confidence Through Communication
Family support contributes greatly in successfully achieving speech therapy goals. Aside from having the best “speech specialist near me,” therapist guide parents and caregivers on how they can introduce language-filled activities to their daily routines. This may be small changes in their routines or exercises done for a few minutes daily. As a little goes a long way, this leads to better outcomes such as being able to chat during play or communicate with simple gestures. Speech therapy is not just talking. It helps children relate, exchange ideas, and feel understood. Each little milestone is one step closer to more confidence.
Moving Forward
CHARGE syndrome, although challenging, is manageable. This is possible with the guidance and support of an expert and qualified “speech specialist near me.” Here at Speech Link, we have a team of experienced and effective speech and language professionals. We would be more than happy to help your child and your family get through some of these challenges. Start with booking a consultation and assessment and carve the way for your child’s success in life, despite CHARGE.