Pediatric Speech and Language Therapy for Literacy
in West Bloomfield, MI
Helping Children Regulate Their Senses to Support Communication and Learning
Some children struggle to process the world around them. For them, sounds feel too loud, lights seem too bright, or certain textures are overwhelming. These sensory challenges can affect how they play, focus, and communicate.
At Gigi’s Kids Speech & Language Therapy, we help children strengthen their sensory processing and regulation skills to support successful communication and learning. Our therapists make each session playful, supportive, and personalized to your child’s unique needs.
What Is Sensory Integration?
Sensory integration is the brain’s ability to organize and respond to information it receives from the senses of sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell, and body awareness. When sensory processing works smoothly, a child can stay calm, pay attention, and interact appropriately with their environment.
However, when a child’s sensory system has trouble organizing this information, it can lead to challenges with behavior, attention, and communication. For example, a child might cover their ears at everyday sounds, seek constant movement, or have trouble sitting still long enough to listen or talk.
How Sensory Integration Affects Speech and Language
Speech and language development depend on a child’s ability to attend, engage, and process what they hear and see. When sensory systems are dysregulated, it can be difficult to focus on communication. By improving sensory regulation, children can better focus, engage, and participate in speech and language therapy.
Here are some examples of how dysregulation can affect a child’s speech and language development:
- A child who is overwhelmed by background noise may struggle to listen and respond in class.
- A child with poor body awareness may have difficulty sitting upright or coordinating the muscles used for speech.
- A child who avoids touch or movement might resist interactive, social play, which is a key part of language learning.
How Speech Therapy Supports Sensory Integration
At Gigi’s Kids, our therapists understand the connection between sensory processing and communication. While speech-language pathologists are not occupational therapists, we incorporate sensory-friendly strategies into every session to help your child stay calm, alert, and ready to learn.
We take an integrated approach to empower children to make steady progress in both sensory regulation and language development. Depending on your child’s specific needs, this approach may include:
- Movement and Play: We use games, songs, and physical activities to engage attention and regulate energy levels.
- Sensory-Friendly Tools: We might incorporate fidget toys, weighted items, or visual supports to help children stay focused and comfortable.
- Calming Strategies: We can teach children how to recognize and manage their sensory needs, such as taking deep breaths or using quiet breaks.
- Parent Coaching: We help families identify daily routines and environments that promote successful communication at home.
Schedule an Evaluation Today
If your child has trouble focusing, regulating emotions, or responding to sensory input, speech-language therapy may help. Our team can assess your child’s needs and design a plan that supports their sensory and communication development.
Call us today at (248) 735-8080 or click below to schedule a free consultation with Amanda Tompkins. Together, we’ll help your child feel more comfortable, confident, and connected through communication.