Speech and OT

  Many children on the autism spectrum use echolalia, the repetition of words or phrases either immediately or later after hearing them. According to Barry Prizant (1987), echolalia is characteristic of at least 85% of autistic children who develop speech. In the past, echolalia was often viewed as non-functional speech that needed to be eliminated. However, perspectives have shifted. Experts now recognize that echolalia serves a purpose—it provides insights into how autistic individuals feel and what they are trying to express. For instance, many parents have heard their child say, "Do you want a cookie?" when they actually want a cookie. They are repeating a phrase they've previously heard in a relevant context. Instead of dismissing this, we can guide this behavior toward more typical communication patterns. Strategies for Supporting Children Who Use Echolalia Drawing from Kathleen Ann Quill’s book, Teaching Children with Autism , and insights from Patrick J. Rydell ...

  Children with hearing loss are making remarkable strides in oral communication thanks to early diagnosis and technological advancements. Today, even those with severe hearing impairments can learn to speak, develop oral language skills, and attend mainstream schools. With the right support, including hearing aids, cochlear implants, and speech therapy, children can achieve significant progress in their communication abilities. Types of Hearing Loss Hearing loss generally falls into two main categories: conductive and sensorineural . Conductive hearing loss occurs when the outer or middle ear fails to function properly, blocking sound from reaching the inner ear for processing. This condition is often caused by ear infections or fluid buildup in the middle ear and is frequently treatable with medication or surgery. Sensorineural hearing loss, on the other hand, results from damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. This is the most common type of hearing loss and cannot be surgi...