The Role of Better Speech and Hearing Month in Promoting SEL

Understanding Better Speech and Hearing Month

May is recognized as Better Speech and Hearing Month (BSHM), a time dedicated to raising awareness about communication disorders and promoting treatment. Initiated by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), this month serves as an opportunity to educate parents about the critical role of speech and hearing in overall child development ¹. This article is part of our complete guide to Awareness Months: A Year-Round SEL Calendar for Families.

Better Speech and Hearing Month also emphasizes the importance of early detection and intervention. By understanding and recognizing communication challenges early, families can access the necessary resources and support. This proactive approach is crucial in fostering a child's social-emotional development.

The Link Between Speech-Language Milestones and SEL

Speech-language milestones are more than just markers of communication ability; they are deeply interconnected with social-emotional learning (SEL). Effective communication skills allow children to express their emotions, understand others, and build healthy relationships. Through SEL, children learn to manage emotions, set goals, show empathy, and establish positive relationships ².

Example: A Day in the Park

Imagine a child at the park who wants to join a group of peers playing. With developed speech skills, they can approach and ask, "Can I play with you?" This simple communication not only fosters inclusion but also builds self-awareness and relationship skills. Without these skills, the child might struggle to connect, potentially leading to feelings of isolation.

In my practice, I've observed how children with strong communication skills tend to navigate social settings more confidently. They are more likely to initiate conversations, resolve conflicts amicably, and express their needs clearly, which are essential components of SEL.

Enhancing SEL through Speech

• Self-awareness: Recognizing one's own speech patterns and how they affect others.
• Social awareness: Understanding the nuances of verbal and non-verbal cues in communication.
• Relationship skills: Using language to negotiate, compromise, and collaborate with peers.

Conducting a Free Hearing and Speech Check at Home

While professional evaluation is crucial, parents can perform simple checks at home to monitor their child's speech and hearing development. Remember, these checks are not diagnostic tools but can guide conversations with healthcare providers.

• Observe Speech Patterns: Listen to the clarity of your child's speech. Can they pronounce words correctly for their age group? ³.
• Hearing Awareness: Clap your hands behind your child's head and observe their reaction. Do they turn towards the sound?
• Interaction: Watch how they engage with peers. Are they able to follow conversations and share their thoughts?

In-Home Practice Example

One parent I worked with used storytime as a way to enhance their child's speech and hearing skills. By reading a story aloud and pausing to ask questions like, "What do you think will happen next?" or "How do you think the character feels?", the child learned to listen actively and engage in dialogue, strengthening both language and emotional understanding.

When to Consult Your Pediatrician for an SLP Referral

It's important for parents to know when to seek professional advice. Consult your pediatrician if:

• Your child isn't meeting developmental milestones as outlined by the AAP.
• You notice persistent stuttering or unclear speech.
• Your child struggles to understand or produce language in social settings.

In my practice, I've seen many parents delay seeking help due to uncertainty. Early intervention can make a significant difference in a child's communication and social skills.

Recognizing the Need for Professional Help

Parents often wonder when it's the right time to seek an SLP's guidance. A good rule of thumb is to trust your instincts. If you notice patterns that concern you, such as difficulty following instructions or a lack of interest in social interactions, it's beneficial to have a professional evaluation.

What an SLP Actually Does

Many parents may not fully understand the role of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). SLPs are trained to help children with a range of communication issues, including:

• Speech-sound disorders: Difficulty pronouncing sounds.
• Language disorders: Trouble understanding or putting words together.
• Social communication disorders: Challenges with the social aspects of communication.

Example: Working with an SLP

Consider a child who struggles with clear speech. An SLP might use games and activities that are fun and engaging to help the child practice sounds and words. This approach not only improves speech but also enhances self-management and resilience as the child learns to overcome challenges.

In my practice, I often incorporate SEL principles into speech therapy. For example, using role-play scenarios helps children practice conversation skills in a safe environment, building their confidence and emotional intelligence.

The Connection: Language and Emotion Regulation

Language is a powerful tool for emotion regulation. When children can articulate their feelings, they are better equipped to manage them. This is where SEL and language development intersect.

• Labeling Emotions: Teaching children to name their emotions can reduce tantrums and frustration.
• Expressing Needs: Encourage children to use words to express what they need, fostering independence and problem-solving skills.

Scripted Dialogue: Handling Big Emotions

Instead of saying "Stop crying," you might try, "I see you're upset. It's okay to feel sad. Let's talk about it." This approach validates feelings and encourages open communication.

In practice, I've found that children who can express their emotions verbally tend to have fewer behavioral issues. They are more likely to use words rather than actions to resolve conflicts, leading to healthier social interactions.

Free Downloads: Speech and SEL Milestones by Age

Understanding developmental milestones can guide parents in supporting their child's growth. Download our free resources to track your child's progress in both speech and SEL areas. These tools offer a roadmap for fostering your child's communication skills and emotional intelligence.

Explore our Using Words to Share Our Feelings and Needs - Social Story to help your child express their emotions effectively, enhancing both their communication skills and emotional awareness.

References

¹ ASHA. Better Speech and Hearing Month. Retrieved from ASHA.
² CASEL. What is the CASEL Framework? Retrieved from CASEL.
³ AAP. Developmental milestones. Retrieved from AAP.