How Families Can Support Their Student’s Speech/Language Development
*Disclaimer: Some resources may only be accessible with your student's Heartland email address due to copyright reasons.
Heartland’s MTSS Speech/Language Support
At Heartland, we believe every student learns differently and deserves support that meets their individual needs. Our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) provides three levels of support to help students succeed in multiple academic areas, including speech and language.
Tier 1 Speech/Language Overview
The Tier 1 speech and language resources on this website are designed with our independently study charter model in mind. We designed the resources and activities to provide families with practical, research-based strategies and activities to support their student's speech/language development.
When a concern is identified, the homeschool teacher (HST) will provide a checklist specific to your child's needs. The checklist includes links to strategies and activities, along with space to document what you've tried and how your student responds. This information helps us monitor progress and determine whether additional support may be needed.
As the learning coach, your support and consistent practice throughout the school day help your student apply developing skills beyond structured activities and into everyday conversations. You don't need to be a speech expert! You are in a wonderful position to support your student's communication through everyday activities and interactions.
Remember, you don't have to do everything perfectly. These activities should be helpful, not stressful. Explore the resources, find what works for your family, and give them a try.
General Speech/Language Resources
There are so many amazing resources available to support your student’s speech and language development. Check out this resource for ideas!
Articulation
A student with an articulation deficits may have trouble saying sounds, may not speak clearly, and may be hard to understand.
Language
A student with language deficits may have difficulty understanding what others say or finding the words to express their own thoughts and ideas. They might struggle with learning new words, following directions, answering questions, telling stories, putting together correct sentences, or explaining what they are thinking. These challenges can sometimes make it harder to keep up with learning, make friends, or communicate their wants and needs.
Fluency (Stuttering)
Students who have deficits in fluency may have trouble speaking smoothly. They may repeat sounds or words or have long pauses when they talk. Stuttering can make it hard to answer questions or give speeches. It can also make it hard to talk to friends.
Pragmatics (Social Language)
Students with social communication deficits may have trouble talking with other children and may not make friends easily. They may not understand what others think or how they feel.
Voice
Students with voice disorders may sound hoarse or lose their voice. They may sound like they talk through their nose, called nasality. A student's voice may be too loud or too soft. Voice problems can make it hard to talk in class or with friends.