Progress in Every Word

When families start speech therapy in Melbourne, many bring quiet hopes and big questions. For Adam, words once felt out of reach. With patient, playful support, one sound became two, then short phrases. His voice slowly began to grow. Stories like Adam’s show that with time and guidance, real progress is always possible.

Speech Pathologist: Pauline
Speech Pathology Aide: Katherine
Client: Ryan (name changed)
Current Age: 6 years old
Treatment time: 3 months
Presenting concern: Non-verbal/ Speech delay

2025

Produced first imitations such as “uh oh” and “bye bye.” Demonstrated spontaneous words during play (e.g., “in,” “out,” “please”)

Sentence Length: Progressed to 2–3 word phrases, often in play (e.g., “Go in again,” “Put it in the cup?” “Sticker on forehead”)

Began with a single spoken word, “papa"

Sentence Length: Predominantly single words (e.g., “papa”)

2025

2025

Expanded to short phrases and functional vocabulary. Used words like “help me,” “open,” “please,” and started producing colour names and phrases in play (e.g., “Go in again,” “Put it in the cup?”). Counted items up to four and joined in songs

Sentence Length: Started using two-word combinations with support, e.g., “in/out,” “new sticker,” short imitations like “bye bye”

Evidence of Spoken Words and Sentences

2025

2025

Independently counted 1–10. Used imaginative language with toys (“help me”), produced animal sounds, and joined in structured games (“go/stop,” “up/down,” “hot/cold”). Demonstrated social expressions like “please” and “thank you” without prompting

Consistently used social words (“sorry,” “please,” “thank you”). Began producing /s/ and /ch/ target words (e.g., “sunny,” “suitcase,” “chicken”). Initiated imaginative play language and role-play (e.g., “sorry” after spilling, “more please”)

SUMMARY

At school, Ryan is:

• Recognised as making clear progress in speech and communication.

• Able to use social words (“please,” “thank you”) appropriately.

• Demonstrating improving participation and communication skills, which teachers have positively acknowledged.

Speech grows like a garden. With care, time, and encouragement, every child finds their own way to bloom.