"SECURITY BLANKETS":

Depending on the child's age, there are security blankets to consider - before and upon arriving at therapy. Here’s our list of things we think you should consider:

• Bring a snack (ask therapist if this is "ok," ahead of time!)

• Bring a familiar book

• Bring a favorite toy or game

• Tell the child "the therapist is NOT a doctor" (i.e. no shots)

• Assure the child they will not be left alone in the room without parent (discuss ahead of time with therapist)

• Ask the therapist what the child (and parent!) should expect during the appointment, and relay that to your child

• Prepare some notes to inform the therapist of your child's interests, hobbies, accomplishments

• Prepare the child to answer basic questions - and if the child may be reluctant, make a plan with the child how they would like to handle the situation

Uri Schneider, Co-Director Schneider Speech