Sessions with a special education specialist
special education specialist · developmental specialist · sessions for developmental delay · child development sessions
A specialist helps a child with a developmental delay learn to talk, understand, think, and play. Sessions are done through play.
When a child is behind in speech, attention, or understanding, and with hearing or vision problems, autism, or cerebral palsy.
⏱ Duration: a session usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and you need to attend regularly for months
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Routine. Plan the session for when your child is rested and has eaten.
- Talking. Tell your child they are going to play with a new grown-up.
- Notes. Write down what you notice at home, which makes it easier to tell the specialist.
What to bring
- Doctors' reports
- A favorite toy
- Water and a snack
- Indoor shoes
How it goes
- The specialist gets to know your child through play
- Watches how your child understands speech, plays, and does tasks
- Tells you what is going well and what needs developing
- Makes a plan for the sessions
- Works with your child following the plan
- Shows you how to continue at home
What you'll feel
- Your child may feel shy or fussy the first time, which is normal
- Progress can be slow, but it happens
Afterwards
- Repeat at home what you were shown
- Praise your child for trying
- Talk to your doctor and the specialist if something changes
Common questions
How is this different from a speech therapist?
A speech therapist mostly works on speech. This specialist develops thinking, attention, understanding, and play together with speech.
From what age can we start?
The earlier, the better. There are sessions even for children under three.