C&FD speech therapy

A speech-language evaluation measures a child’s communication skills.  It is completed by a Speech-Language Pathologist. A referral from the primary care physician is typically required prior to the evaluation.  

Before your child is seen for an evaluation, information is gathered, including medical history, developmental history, family history, educational history, therapeutic history, and primary concerns. 

Formal tests may be completed during the evaluation, which is a way to compare your child to other children of the same age. A Speech-Language Pathologist may also informally assess your child. Informal tasks can include parental interview, discussion with other professionals (i.e. teacher, occupational therapist, etc.), observing how the child plays, and observing how the child interacts with adults/peers. 

During a speech-language evaluation, the following areas may be assessed:

1)      Receptive language-what the child understands

2)      Expressive language-what the child says

3)      Articulation-production of speech sounds

4)      Pragmatic language-social use of language

5)      Voice

6)      Fluency

7)      Oral peripheral examination-looks at structure and function of the face, lips, teeth, tongue, and palate

8)      Hearing screening

A written report will follow the evaluation, and may include the following information: child’s history, speech-language testing results and recommendations. 

At Child and Family Development in Charlotte, NC, an Interpretive Parent Conference is held after the evaluation to discuss findings, recommendations, and discuss normal speech-language skills. The Speech-Language Pathologist and parent/s are present during the meeting. 

If you suspect that your child has a communication disorder, please contact your local Speech-Language Pathologist.