Why Do You Provide Speech Therapy in Spanish?

As a Bilingual Speech-Language Pathologist, I have dedicated my time to understanding bilingual speech-language development in children. As discussed in a previous blog post, (you can check it out here!), you can expose a child that has a language delay or disorder to another language besides English. That is why I offer speech therapy in Spanish if it is what the family wants for their child. Ultimately, speech therapy can be in English, in Spanish, or both together if that is what my families prefer! Being bilingual in Spanish and English has been incredibly helpful for me to connect with my own family, and I want your child to have that same chance too! 

I believe in having a conversation with families before we start therapy. Understanding their culture, beliefs, and the language(s) they value for their child is very important to me. In my clinical practice, I prioritize understanding my families' linguistic histories and backgrounds as a crucial foundation to completing a thorough assessment and providing appropriate supports to their child. Moreover, I engage in meaningful conversations with families to learn about their current knowledge and perspectives on bilingual speech and language development. This dialogue serves as a compass, guiding me to offer tailored education and support, ensuring that I address their specific needs and concerns regarding bilingualism. By weaving together their unique stories and insights, I aim to create a more informed and supportive environment that nurtures their child's linguistic growth and celebrates their diverse linguistic heritage.

Teaching a child their native language is so much more than just words—it is a bridge that connects them to their family and keeps their cultural roots strong. It is a way for them to understand their heritage, stories, and traditions, fostering a deeper connection that goes beyond language. By embracing and nurturing their native tongue, we empower children to cherish and celebrate their cultural identity, creating a sense of belonging and pride in who they are and where they come from.

In instances where I might not be fluent in the specific language a family requests, I rely on my expertise in bilingual speech and language development. This allows me to extend support to my families, even when I do not speak the language requested by the family. Additionally, I collaborate with interpreters and provide the best possible care for your child. My commitment to understanding language development in bilingual contexts ensures that language barriers do not hinder the quality of care your family receives.

I hope this information has helped ease any worries you might have about exposing your child to multiple languages. Should you have any lingering questions about bilingual speech and language development or considerations about exposing your child to multiple languages, I invite you to connect with me for a parent consultation. I'm here to provide guidance, address your concerns, and support you in navigating this enriching journey of multilingualism for your child. Your questions are valued, and I'm committed to assisting you in making informed decisions that best suit your family's needs. Feel free to reach out, and let's explore this together!

Disclaimer: As a speech-language pathologist, I'm here to provide educational and informational content, but I'm not your personal healthcare provider. The content on this platform is intended solely for educational purposes and does not constitute the provision of medical or professional services. The information shared here should not be used for diagnosing or treating medical conditions. It's crucial to always consult with your doctor or another qualified healthcare professional for guidance on any health-related concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it due to information you've come across on this account. Multimodal Communication Speech Clinic makes no express or implied representations regarding the information provided here or its use.