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Tell me about Teletherapy...
Teletherapy was around before 2020, but the pandemic really brought it to the forefront. It was a way of maintaining the provision of quality services, so that children who needed speech and language therapy did not miss out on receiving support.
Just like in face-to-face sessions, the speech and language therapist chooses activities and resources that are fun and interactive, specific to the needs and interests of the child. There is the opportunity to share resources, pictures, and drawings.
The speech and language therapist may work directly with the child or, particularly for younger children, support may be given through parents/carers/education staff. Here, the therapist may request that certain toys are available for the session and she can provide advice, modelling and feedback about how these can be used to support the child's communication.
What are the Benefits of Teletherapy?
It's convenient
It eliminates the need to travel to appointments. Parents who have young children and work remotely can easily log on for their child’s therapy appointment during a break in the work day.
It's cost effective
Save on travel time, travel expenses and time off work
It can support nervous or shy children
Seeing the therapist through the screen may help the child to engage in a way that they may not in in-person therapy
It works!
Current research indicates that teletherapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. According to a 2021 report from the American Speech Language Hearing Association (ASHA), 80% of clients who completed all speech therapy visits over teletherapy showed progress. This compares to 79.9% for in-person therapy, so it is just as effective.
What will we need to take part in teletherapy?
Q: What type of computer do I need?
A: Ideally you should use a desktop or a laptop. Tablets or phones will work but it may be more difficult to set those up. I use Zoom video conferencing as this is a secure connection; it is free to use and you can find the platform here. You will need a webcam and speakers, headphones are optional.
Q: What type of internet connection do I need?
A: A high speed internet connection is best. Try and have only the teletherapy session running on the computer and close out any other browser tabs or apps. During the teletherapy session, please refrain from heavy internet use (i.e video streaming) by other people in your household.
Q: Where should I set up the computer?
A: If possible, try to find a quiet place with minimal to no distractions. Avoid sitting your child with their back to the window because the bright light will make it hard to see your child. Test the video camera angle out so that the camera is showing the child/the space where you may be playing/working.
Q: How will I know what time the session is at?
A: We will work together to establish the best time for the session. You should receive an email with the information for the time and how to join the teletherapy session.
Q: Do you need the parent or caregiver to stay during the teletherapy session?
A: Yes, I will need your help to guide your child and direct your child’s attention to the computer screen or activity that is provided. There will be a learning curve for everyone at first, so it is helpful to have an adult present to troubleshoot any issues that arise to make the session productive.
Q: What will happen during the teletherapy session?
A: It depends on what we are working on; I will be sharing pictures/games via the screen. I have virtual versions of favourite games, such as Pirate Pop or Crocodile Snap. I will also try and adapt some of my resources so that they match your child’s interests to help to keep your child engaged. I ask that you help your child to carry out the activities and to keep focused during the session.
Q: Do I need to prepare anything in advance of the session?
A: If your child has a favourite toy or activity at home, then it may be helpful to have that close by so we can use it in the session for part of the therapy or assessment.
Q: What happens if the sessions does not go as planned?
A: Remember, when working with children often nothing does go as planned so the same will be true with teletherapy! There are many things that may occur such as poor connection, video lags, lack of interest in the activity, distractions, and so on. We can troubleshoot together to determine how to improve the session or change things up for the next session. Together we can help your child succeed and reach their goals.
Q: What will happen in between sessions?
A: Most likely, you will be provided with carry over activities or suggestions for your child to do until the next session.
Q: What should I do if I have more questions?
A: Ask me! I am always happy to answer any questions.