May is Pediatric Speech, Language, and Hearing Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about how children communicate, connect, and learn. For families, it’s a chance to understand the milestones of communication development, recognize when support may be needed, and celebrate the many ways children express themselves—including with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
Why Pediatric Speech Language and Hearing Month Matters for Families
Communication is at the heart of childhood. It shapes how kids:
• Build friendships
• Share ideas and feelings
• Participate in school
• Develop confidence
National Speech, Language & Hearing Month encourages families to learn about communication development and seek support early when something feels “off.”
What Speech, Language and Hearing Really Mean
Understanding the difference helps parents know what to look for:
• Speech skills — how children produce sounds clearly
• Language skills — how children understand and use words and sentences
• Hearing skills — how children listen, process sound, and build spoken language
When one area is delayed, others can be affected—which is why early screening is so important.
Signs a Child May Need Support With Speech Language and Hearing
Every child develops at their own pace, but some signs suggest it’s time to check in with a pediatric therapist:
• Limited vocabulary
• Unclear speech
• Difficulty following directions
• Stuttering behaviors
• Chronic ear infections
• Frustration communicating
If a parent is wondering whether something is typical, that’s already a great reason to ask.
AAC: Another Way Children Communicate
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) includes tools that help children express themselves when speech is limited or still developing. AAC can be:
• Low tech: picture boards, communication books
• High tech: speech-generating devices and apps
AAC does not replace speech. In fact, research shows that it often supports and increases spoken language. It gives children a voice while their speech and language skills grow.
AAC is helpful for children with:
• Autism
• Childhood apraxia of speech
• Down syndrome
• Developmental delays
• Hearing differences
• Motor challenges
Families often feel relieved when they see how AAC reduces frustration and opens the door to real communication.
How Pediatric Therapy Helps
Pediatric speech language pathologists and audiologists use play based, child centered approaches to support communication growth. Therapy may include:
• Speech sound practice
• Language building strategies
• Hearing screenings
• AAC evaluation and support
• Social communication support
The goal is always the same: helping children feel understood and empowered.
How Families Can Celebrate Pediatric Speech Language and Hearing Month
Try simple, meaningful activities at home:
• Read together daily
• Narrate routines (“Now we’re washing hands…”)
• Encourage turn taking in conversation
• Reduce background noise during play
• Explore AAC modeling if your child uses a device
• Schedule a speech language screening if you have concerns
Every child deserves a voice—spoken, signed, gestured, or supported through AAC. This month, we celebrate all the ways children communicate and the families who champion their growth. If you have questions about your child’s speech, language, hearing, or AAC needs, our pediatric therapy team is here to support you every step of the way.
FOR GREAT STRIDES PEDIATRIC REHABILITATION IN FLORIDA AND VIRGINIA
Start your child’s speech therapy journey today by completing our new client paperwork. If you have further questions or need help with anything at all, call us Monday-Friday at (904) 886-3228.
FOR H2 HEALTH KIDS IN TEXAS, THERAPEDS WORKS IN TEXAS, AND ATLAS KIDS IN KENTUCKY
If your child is ready to start speech therapy, complete our online appointment request form. If you have further questions or need help with anything at all, call us Monday-Friday at (800) 699-9395.
NOT SURE WHICH LOCATION IS BEST FOR YOU?
The H2 Health network has clinics across the country that specialize in helping not only children, but people of all ages. To learn if your closest clinic supports your child’s needs, please visit the Locations page of our website. You can email any questions to contactus@h2health.com.
We look forward to working with you and your child through Pediatric Occupational Therapy During OT Month!
