The Role of Play in Pediatric Speech Therapy
For children, play is more than fun—it’s how they learn about the world. In speech therapy for toddlers, play is not just encouraged, it’s essential. Through games, toys, and imaginative activities, therapists create opportunities for children to practice sounds, words, and social interactions in ways that feel natural and engaging.
Why Play Matters in Therapy
Young children learn best when they’re actively engaged. Play-based speech therapy takes advantage of this by weaving therapy goals into activities that feel like playtime. Instead of drilling sounds or vocabulary in a classroom-like setting, therapists use playful routines to help children develop strong child communication skills while having fun.
Play connects therapy goals to real-life situations. Some key benefits include:
Engagement: Children stay motivated when they’re having fun.
Natural learning: Language develops in context—through pretend play, songs, or building blocks.
Social growth: Play helps children practice taking turns, sharing, and expressing needs.
Confidence: When therapy feels fun, children are more likely to take risks and try new words.
Every game or activity in therapy has a purpose. For example, a game of “pretend cooking” might involve vocabulary for foods, sequencing (first we stir, then we bake), and practicing speech sounds. A building block tower could encourage turn-taking, using phrases like “my turn” or “more blocks.” These playful interactions target articulation, language comprehension, and expressive communication in meaningful ways.
Play at Home
Parents play a critical role, too. By continuing play-based speech therapy strategies at home, families can extend progress beyond the clinic. Simple activities like reading picture books together, singing songs, or narrating playtime routines can make a big difference in building child communication skills.
At Fisher-Jost Therapy, we believe that learning through play is one of the most powerful ways to support children. Our therapists design sessions that are engaging, developmentally appropriate, and individualized—so every child feels successful while making real progress.
Whether your child is just starting therapy or continuing their journey, play will always be at the heart of their growth and success.