When children become frustrated at their inability to communicate, some speech therapists choose to teach basic sign language. Basic sign language does not further delay speech in most children, but it does give them an effective way to communicate until their speech progresses. Simple signs like "eat," "more," "drink" and "play" can be helpful in enabling young children to communicate their needs to caregivers before they are able to talk.
Speech therapists often use singing activities during a therapy session. Singing actually engages a different part of the brain than talking, and information set to music is easier to remember. Choose simple songs with strong rhythms and repetitive lyrics. Encourage your child to attempt to sing along, sing a chorus or use hand motions that fit the meaning of the song. While you and your child have fun singing together, she will not realize that you are actually working on speech and articulation.
Tongue and oral motor exercises are often part of speech therapy. Some children have difficulty talking or forming words partly because they have trouble using the muscles in their mouth and face areas. Speech therapists will have children do things like blowing up a balloon, blowing bubbles, licking a Popsicle and sucking thick liquids through a straw to strengthen these muscles. Children usually enjoy these activities, and they are easy to duplicate at home for additional practice.
Effective speech therapy is all about games and learning through play. While there may be some drill and repetition involved, speech therapy should be fun for the adult and the child. Speech therapy games can include some that are commercially available or games that the therapist has created for his own clients. Either way, playing similar games at home will help your child to make progress in learning to speak and communicate effectively.