Our Services → Speech & Language
Speech & Language Therapy
Communication is at the heart of connection. Whether your child is speaking their first words or learning to express complex thoughts, our speech-language pathologists use evidence-based, play-centred approaches to support every child’s unique communication journey — in Bangla, English, or both.
✓ Bilingual Bangla-English therapy
✓ Parent coaching included
✓ Play-based & AAC approaches
Understanding Speech & Language
Speech vs. Language — What is the Difference?
Many parents use “speech” and “language” interchangeably, but they refer to different skills. Speech is the physical production of sounds — how clearly your child pronounces words, the fluency of their talking, and the quality of their voice. Language is the system of understanding and using words to communicate — vocabulary, sentence structure, and the ability to express ideas and understand others.
A child may have clear speech but limited language, or rich language but unclear speech. Some children experience both. In Bangladesh’s bilingual environment, children often develop language at a pace shaped by exposure to both Bangla and English — our therapists are experienced in supporting bilingual development.
“Every child has something to say. Our job is to help them find the way that works best for them — whether that is through spoken words, signs, pictures, or technology.” — Beyond Barriers Speech Team
Signs to Watch For
Communication develops at different rates, but if you notice several of these signs persisting, a speech-language assessment can provide clarity and direction.
👶 No Words by 15–18 Months
Your child has not spoken their first clear words, or has very few words by 18 months. Limited verbal communication beyond crying and gestures.
🗣️ Unclear Speech After Age 3
Family members and familiar people have difficulty understanding what your child is saying. Sounds are consistently substituted, omitted, or distorted.
📖 Limited Vocabulary Growth
Your child’s vocabulary is not expanding as expected. By age 2, most children use 50+ words and are beginning to combine two words together.
👂 Difficulty Understanding Instructions
Struggles to follow simple directions appropriate for their age, such as “bring me the ball” or “put the cup on the table.”
😤 Frustration When Communicating
Your child becomes very upset, throws tantrums, or withdraws because they cannot express what they want or need. Communication breakdowns are frequent.
🔁 Stuttering or Repetitions
Frequently repeating sounds, syllables, or words. Getting “stuck” on certain sounds or showing visible tension when trying to speak fluently.
🤷 Difficulty with Conversations
Struggles to stay on topic, take turns in conversation, or tell a simple story in sequence. May use memorised phrases instead of spontaneous language.
🍽️ Feeding and Oral Motor Issues
Drooling beyond infancy, difficulty chewing age-appropriate foods, or a noticeable preference for soft foods may indicate underlying oral motor challenges.
Our Therapy Methods
Evidence-Based Approaches
We select the best therapy approach — or combination of approaches — based on your child’s specific needs, age, and goals.
Hanen Approach
Parent-focused programs like “It Takes Two to Talk” and “More Than Words” that empower parents with strategies to support language development in everyday interactions at home.
PROMPT Therapy
A tactile-kinaesthetic approach where the therapist uses gentle touch cues on the child’s face and jaw to guide correct movement patterns for speech sound production.
AAC Systems
Augmentative and Alternative Communication — including picture boards, communication apps, and sign language — gives every child a voice, regardless of their verbal abilities.
Play-Based Therapy
Children learn best through play. Our therapists embed speech and language goals into engaging, motivating play activities that feel natural and enjoyable for your child.
Parent Coaching
We actively coach parents in each session, showing you how to carry language-building strategies into mealtimes, bath time, and play at home — making every moment a learning opportunity.
What to Expect
From your first visit to ongoing therapy, here is how we support your child’s communication journey step by step.
1
Speech-Language Assessment
A thorough evaluation of your child’s speech sound production, receptive and expressive language, oral motor skills, fluency, and social communication through play-based tasks and parent interview.
2
Goal Setting with Family
We share results with you and collaboratively set goals that matter to your family — whether it is asking for food at mealtimes, making friends at school, or telling grandparents about their day.
3
Weekly Therapy Sessions
Engaging, play-based sessions where your child works on their goals through motivating activities. Parents participate and learn strategies to practise at home between sessions for faster progress.
4
Progress Review & Next Steps
Regular progress reviews ensure therapy stays on track. We celebrate achievements, adjust goals as your child grows, and coordinate with schools and other therapists as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child is bilingual (Bangla and English). Will this cause speech delay?
No. Research consistently shows that bilingualism does not cause speech or language delays. Bilingual children may mix languages initially, which is a normal part of bilingual development. Our therapists are experienced with Bangla-English bilingual families and support communication development in both languages.
How long does speech therapy usually take?
The duration varies based on your child’s needs. Some children with mild articulation issues may see significant improvement in 3–6 months. Children with more complex language needs may benefit from therapy over a longer period. We set clear goals and review progress regularly so you always know where your child stands.
Should I be worried if my 2-year-old is not talking much?
While some “late talkers” do catch up, research shows that early evaluation and support leads to better outcomes. If your child has fewer than 50 words by age 2, or is not combining words, we recommend a speech-language assessment. Early intervention makes a real difference, and there is no harm in checking.
Do parents need to attend therapy sessions?
We strongly encourage parent involvement. Parent coaching is a core part of our approach — the strategies you use at home between sessions are often more powerful than the therapy session itself. Parents, grandparents, or primary caregivers are welcome and will learn practical techniques for daily communication building.
What if my child does not use words at all?
Every child can communicate. For children who are not yet using spoken words, we explore alternative communication methods — picture exchange systems, sign language, or communication apps on tablets. These tools do not replace speech; they often support and encourage spoken language development alongside alternative communication.
Related Services
Speech and language development is closely linked with other aspects of your child’s growth. These services may complement speech therapy.
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ASD Screening
Speech delays are often one of the first signs of ASD. If communication difficulties are accompanied by social challenges, an ASD screening can provide clarity.
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Learning Support
Language difficulties can affect reading, writing, and academic performance. Our learning assessments identify how speech-language needs interact with school success.
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Developmental Assessments
For younger children with speech concerns, a comprehensive developmental assessment can evaluate all areas of development to understand the full picture.