Early intervention for a child’s speech-language development is serious business, with severe consequences.
Researchers of leading institutions agree that early intervention for challenges related to speech and language is integral to a child’s development.   Researchers are careful to note the difference between early identification (recognizing key traits and symptom that might suggest a speech-language disorder) and early intervention (seeking the assistance of a certified speech-language pathologist).  Results of decades of applied research in neurosciences, speech-language pathology, and early childhood special education show that strategic early intervention programs improve life outcomes.  While there is a myriad of benefits to gain from early intervention, a general consensus among researchers and service providers identify three primary groups under which all benefits of early intervention are categorized.
 

1. Enhance Child’s Development

 “Only through early identification and appropriate programming can children develop their potential.” -Karnes and Lee (1978)

Child development research has established that the rate of human learning and development is most rapid in the preschool years.  If the most teachable moments or stages of greatest readiness are not taken advantage of during this time, a child may have difficulty learning a particular skill later on. Early intervention becomes particularly important when a child runs the risk of missing an opportunity to learn during a state of maximum readiness.  Speech and language development are among the most consequential and researched. American Family Physician notes that speech and language delay in children is associated with increased difficulty with reading, writing, attention, and socialization.  The CDC warns that children with language disorders may feel frustrated that they cannot understand others or make themselves understood, and they may act out, act helpless, or withdraw.  Additional Studies have found that children with speech delays may be at a higher risk of developing social, emotional, or behavioral problems as adults.  As further research continues to emerge, the findings conclude that healthy speech and language development is the basic foundation for a child’s development.

2. Assistance and Support for the Family

Early Intervention provides assistance and support to empower families of children with developmental delays, special needs, or other concerns.
Frequently, the families of children that experience delays in speech and language development will have their well-being overlooked, and at times, ignored.   Early intervention services have a significant impact on the parents and siblings of an infant or young child who experiences delays in speech and language development. The family often feels disappointment, social isolation, added stress, frustration, and helplessness.  Research has found a correlation between increased rates of divorce and delays in childhood development.  Early intervention for a child has profound benefits that extend to the child’s family unit.  Intervention services can result in parents having improved attitudes about themselves and their child, improved information and skills for teaching their child, and a support network to provide ongoing resources.

3. Maximize the Child’s And Family’s Benefit To Society

Early Intervention lays a foundation that will improve the life of the child and offer greater opportunities.
The third category for early intervention is that society will reap maximum benefits. The child’s increased developmental and educational gains and decreased dependence upon social institutions, the family’s increased ability to cope with the presence of an exceptional child, and perhaps the child’s increased eligibility for employment, all provide economic as well as social benefits.
 
 
If you believe that your child would benefit from a formal screening from licensed, speech and language pathologist, click here to schedule a complimentary assessment by one of our licensed partners.

Click Here to Learn More About Our Telepractice – Remote Speech-Language Therapy!