Author: Erin Degnan MS CF SLP

Summer is a wonderful time for kids to relax, explore, and have fun—but it’s also important to keep practicing the speech and language skills they’ve worked so hard to develop throughout the school year. Just like reading or math skills, communication skills can become rusty without regular use. The good news is that practice doesn’t have to feel like homework. Spending just 10–15 minutes a day talking, reading together, playing games, or practicing speech sounds during everyday activities can help your child maintain their progress and continue to build new skills. Small, consistent moments of practice can make returning to therapy or school in the fall a smoother transition. Here are a few easy ways to practice speech and language

Why Does National Speech, Language, & Hearing Month Matter? Speech and language skills don’t just affect how a child talks—these skills influence how children understand others, express their ideas, and succeed across environments. Hearing also plays a critical role in children’s development. Even mild hearing impairments can impact speech development and learning. Early Signs to Watch For: Parents are often the first to notice when their child isn’t hitting developmental milestones. Consider seeking guidance if your child: Isn’t babbling or using gestures by 12 months Has limited vocabulary compared to their same-aged peers Struggles to follow directions Is difficult for others to understand Talk, read, and sing with your child regularly Encourage turn-taking in conversations (pause regularly to allow your