speech therapy

The objective of this study is to explore the social interaction patterns of children with speech disorders from the perspectives of their parents and teachers. This qualitative study employed semi-structured interviews to gather in-depth data from 20 participants, including 10 parents and 10 teachers of children aged 4-10 years diagnosed with speech disorders. Participants were selected through purposive sampling to ensure a diverse range of experiences. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis focused on identifying common themes related to social interactions, communication strategies, and the emotional impact of speech disorders. Three main themes emerged from the data: the impact of speech disorders on social interactions, the role of the environment in social interaction, and strategies for facilitating social interactions. Children with speech disorders faced significant challenges in peer relationships, often experiencing social isolation and bullying. The home and school environments were critical in shaping social experiences, with teacher support and family encouragement playing pivotal roles. Parents and teachers employed various strategies, such as positive reinforcement, visual aids, and behavioral interventions, to support children's social interactions. Collaboration between parents and teachers was essential for providing consistent support. The study highlights the multifaceted nature of social interaction challenges for children with speech disorders and underscores the importance of supportive environments and collaborative strategies. Effective interventions require a comprehensive approach involving parents, teachers, and speech therapists. Future research should focus on larger, more diverse samples and include the perspectives of children with speech disorders to develop child-centered interventions. Practical recommendations include implementing inclusive practices in schools, enhancing parent-teacher collaboration, integrating speech therapy services into schools, and promoting community awareness to reduce stigma.

This article critically analyzes the role of speech therapy in enhancing the communication skills of children with exceptional needs. It explores the multifaceted nature of speech therapy, encompassing a range of interventions tailored to individual needs. The discussion includes the benefits of speech therapy, such as improvements in speech production, language abilities, social communication, and pragmatic language skills. Challenges and limitations within the field are also examined, along with a comparative analysis of speech therapy against other interventions. Current trends, latest developments, and research gaps in speech therapy are addressed, emphasizing the need for continued research and innovation. The article concludes with policy recommendations and practical implications for evidence-based speech therapy practices, highlighting their significance in promoting holistic development and well-being in children with exceptional needs. Keywords: Speech Therapy, Communication Skills, Children with Exceptional Needs, Critical Analysis.