When people think of speech and language therapy, play is not always the first thing that comes to mind; however, play skills serve an important role in the development of fundamental speech and language skills. One might ask about how these areas are connected. There are established theories that can provide one with a more thorough explanation of the relationship between play and language development.
In our experience, play can provide a framework that allows for increased language skills. In simple terms, play can allow for the growth of language by giving children experiences that may later be expressed verbally, with gestures, or by some other means. In a sense, play can provide the underlying fuel and inherent motivation that is needed for children to communicate thoughts, wants, and needs related to the focus of their play.
Simple games that involve turn-taking like rolling a ball to another person while requesting a turn (e.g., “my turn”) are highly motivating and communication is immediately rewarded. More complex games that may include role-playing (e.g., having a tea party) allow for expanded language and dialogue to develop. By virtue of playing with others children are entering a world that is full of opportunities for language enrichment, growth, and development. Play can also provide children with practice and experience that they can immediately apply in their daily interactions.
Play is an area that we address as part of many pediatric speech and language evaluations. As with other areas that are evaluated by SLPs, we can design functional treatment goals and plans for those that may benefit from intervention in the world of play as well.
If you or someone you know needs the services of a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist, please be sure to discuss your concerns with a physician, a speech-language pathologist, or another qualified provider. You can also find a provider through the ASHA ProFind service or visit us at www.bilingualspeech.org for more information. NOTE: This article is intended only as a general source of information, i.e, it is not intended to replace information given to you by a qualified health professional that is familiar with your particular circumstances. Lastly, if you have an urgent medical need, please seek immediate medical attention.