Target keywords: tele-speech therapy tools, speech therapy session distance, video speech therapist, teleconsultation material, online speech therapy
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Tele-speech therapy has developed and is now part of the care modalities. Remote sessions require specific adaptations and tools designed for the digital format.
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Specificities of tele-speech therapy
Advantages
Accessibility (rural areas, reduced mobility). Continuation of follow-up (illness, confinement). Flexibility. Observation of the child in their environment.
Challenges
Attention is more difficult to maintain. Interaction is less natural. Technical dependence. Difficult for young children or patients with severe Autism Spectrum Disorder.
For whom?
Tele-speech therapy is particularly suitable for children over 5-6 years old, for written language disorders, cognitive work, and parental guidance. It is more complex for toddlers, for articulatory disorders requiring fine observation, or for patients with major attention difficulties.
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Adapting tools to the digital format
Shareable screen tools
Our PDF tools can be shared via your video software’s screen sharing. The child sees the same support as you.
Examples:
- Visual timer projected on the screen
- Flashcards for syllables displayed one by one
- Emotion thermometer for check-in
Printable tools for the patient
Send the tools by email before the session. Parents print them, and the child manipulates them while you guide.
Examples:
- Category bingo (each with their own board)
- Story sequencer (the child manipulates)
- Calm down cards (available)
Tools to fill out together
Some tools can be completed during the session, with the child dictating and you filling in (or vice versa).
Examples:
- Interest chart
- Regulation toolbox
- Goals sheet
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Essential tools in tele-speech therapy
Visual timer
Essential for structuring the remote session. Share it on screen or use an online timer.
Emotion thermometer
Start each session with an emotional check-in. The child shows where they are (with their fingers or by pointing to the screen).
👉 Download the Emotion Thermometer
Flashcards for syllables
Perfect for reading: you display, the child reads. Simple and effective at a distance.
👉 Download the Flashcards for Syllables
Category bingo
Everyone prints their version. You draw and show on screen, the child places on their board.
Story sequencer
The child has the printed images, puts them in order, and tells the story via the camera.
👉 Download the Story Sequencer
Digital liaison notebook
Send a report by email after each session, or use a shared digital liaison notebook.
👉 Download the Liaison Notebook
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Maintaining attention at a distance
Shorter sessions
Attention on screen is more tiring. Reduce the duration (30 minutes instead of 45) or break it down further.
Varied activities
Change activities every 5-10 minutes. Alternate modalities: talking, watching, manipulating, moving.
Active breaks
Integrate movement breaks. The child stands up and does an exercise for 1 minute.
👉 Download the Active Break Cards
Physically involve
Ask the child to show objects, go get something, or draw. Break the passivity of the screen.
Gamification
Timed challenges, points, and rewards maintain engagement.
👉 Download the Motivation Tracker
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Role of parents in tele-speech therapy
Adapted presence
Depending on the child’s age and autonomy, the parent can be next to them (young children), in the room but withdrawn, or absent but available.
Technical support
The parent helps with technical aspects: connection, sound, camera, printing of materials.
Parental guidance
Tele-speech therapy is ideal for parental guidance: you observe interactions in the natural environment and give live advice.
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Technical aspects
Connection quality
Check the connection before the session. Have a backup plan (phone) in case of problems.
Lighting and sound
Ensure you are clearly visible and audible. Ask parents to place the child facing the light, with a neutral background.
Screen sharing
Master the screen sharing of your software. Prepare your materials in advance for smooth display.
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Digital application
The COCO application can be used in tele-speech therapy. The child plays on their tablet or computer while you observe and guide via video.
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Summary of tele-speech therapy tools
| Tool | Use in video |
|——-|—————-|
| Visual Timer | Screen sharing |
| Emotion Thermometer | Check-in at the start |
| Flashcards | Screen display |
| Category Bingo | Patient printing |
| Story Sequencer | Patient manipulation |
| Active Breaks | Movement breaks |
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Article written by the DYNSEO team.
