Speech-Language Pathologists are trained to use various tools to achieve appropriate speech productions. These may include straws, tongue depressors, or cotton-tipped applicators. "Speech Buddies" are tools to help students improve their speech and their tongue placement when producing speech sounds. Some sounds are very frustrating for students to learn since they are produced completely inside the mouth. These tools can be used as another tactile support to help students bridge the gap between the instructions for finding the correct place to put their tongue and the actual accurate production of sounds. Although not every tool works for every student, I am always looking to expand and find new ways to help my students. At this age, they are becoming increasingly aware of their speech, and as a result, it affects their self-esteem. Speech buddies could become an essential step toward helping my students achieve their goals!
About my class
Speech-Language Pathologists are trained to use various tools to achieve appropriate speech productions. These may include straws, tongue depressors, or cotton-tipped applicators. "Speech Buddies" are tools to help students improve their speech and their tongue placement when producing speech sounds. Some sounds are very frustrating for students to learn since they are produced completely inside the mouth. These tools can be used as another tactile support to help students bridge the gap between the instructions for finding the correct place to put their tongue and the actual accurate production of sounds. Although not every tool works for every student, I am always looking to expand and find new ways to help my students. At this age, they are becoming increasingly aware of their speech, and as a result, it affects their self-esteem. Speech buddies could become an essential step toward helping my students achieve their goals!