Assistive Devices
Speech plays an important role in communication, allowing individuals to express their thoughts, needs, and emotions to others. .
Speech therapy is a common treatment for speech disorders, and may involve exercises and techniques to improve speech production, language comprehension, and communication skills. In some cases, assistive devices such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices may be used to support communication
These devices use synthesized or recorded speech to communicate on behalf of the user. SGDs may use text-to-speech software, a series of pre-recorded messages, or a combination of both.
These apps allow users to communicate through symbols, pictures, or written text. Some popular AAC apps include Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, and Avaz.
This software can read written text aloud, allowing individuals with speech difficulties to communicate through typing. Some popular text-to-speech software includes
These devices amplify the user’s voice, making it easier to hear and understand. Some voice amplifiers are portable and can be worn on a belt or carried in a pocket.
These apps provide exercises and activities to help individuals with speech difficulties improve their articulation, fluency, and overall communication skills. Some popular speech therapy apps include Speech Therapy for Apraxia, Articulation Station, and Speech Tutor.
These devices allow individuals with limited mobility in their hands to operate a computer or other device using their mouth or head movements.
These physical or digital tools provide a set of symbols, pictures, or written words that the user can point to in order to communicate their thoughts and needs.
These are just a few examples of the many assistive devices available to support individuals with speech difficulties. It’s important to work with a speech-language pathologist or other healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate device or strategy for each individual’s unique needs and abilities.
More Than Words – Hanen Program for Parents of Children with Autism
Speech Therapy Materials and Devices
These cards feature pictures or words that target specific speech sounds or sound combinations, and can be used to help clients practice correct articulation.
These cards feature pictures or words that target vocabulary, syntax, and grammar, and can be used to help clients develop their language skills.
As mentioned earlier, there are many apps available that can provide speech therapy exercises and activities for clients. Some popular options include Articulation Station, Speech Therapy for Apraxia, and Speech Tutor.
These tools are designed to help clients improve their muscle strength and coordination for speech. Examples include chewy tubes, tongue depressors, and whistles.
These tools are designed to help clients improve their voice quality, pitch, and volume. Examples include straw phonation exercises, vocal function exercises, and resonance tools.
Games such as charades, Pictionary, and word scrambles can be used to make speech therapy more engaging and fun for clients.
Augmentative and alternative communication devices (mentioned earlier) can also be used in speech therapy to support clients who have difficulty speaking.