If you’re feeling concerned that your child may be showing signs of a language delay, you’re not alone—and there’s no need to panic. A great way to start supporting your child is through fun and meaningful play at home, which can be both enjoyable and beneficial for their communication development. If you’re concerned about your child’s progress, don’t hesitate to speak with a speech-language therapist at The Grounds for support tailored to your child’s needs.
Why At-Home Activities Matter for Toddlers with Speech Delays
Early speech and language development doesn’t start in the clinic—it starts at home. The daily routines, playtime, and conversations your child experiences with you are their first and most powerful lessons in communication. The play-based moments at home create a rich opportunity for learning by exposing your child to words, sounds, and social cues that build the foundation for speech. These activities not only reinforce skills taught in formal therapy but also help bridge the gap while waiting for services. Most importantly, they build confidence in both parent and child, making communication feel natural, fun, and achievable.
Easy, Evidence-Based Speech Therapy Activities to Try at Home
These simple and practical activities can be done right at home with things you likely have around the house—no special tools or materials needed! The focus is to enjoy playful and fun interactive moments. Through everyday activities like snack time, shower time or storytime, you can naturally utilize these great opportunities to support your toddler’s communication while having fun together.
- Mirror Play
Making sounds and expressions together. Kids love to see themselves in mirrors. It opens up a new world of exploration. Seeing the same things in the room from a different angle, scrutinising every detail of their bodies, experimenting with a variety of facial expressions. Not to mention, mirror play is a fantastic way to elicit joint attention with your little one.
- Sound Play and Animal Noises
Encouraging vocalisation through fun sounds. Children actually experiment with what types of sounds they can produce. More often than not, the first imitation of a child can actually be a non-speech sound. For example, a bear growl “grrrr” or a snake hiss “sssss”.
- Name It! Game
Labeling everyday objects in routines. Avoid asking questions. Instead, just tell them. Throw in the verbs, not just the nouns. For example, “Oh look! A fork! We eat with the fork!”
- Book Reading with Pauses
Follow the 3 comments 1 question rule. Instead of throwing questions such as “what colour is this?” or “what is that?” or “what are they doing?”, let’s just comment.
Relate to their environment or self” “See, pink colour! Just like your shirt!” “Wow, an airplane, same as the one you have over there!”
Animate! “This is a monkey. It says ‘oo oo ah ah’”. Add actions!
- Bubble Play
Use relevant words like “pop,” “more,” and “again”
- Songs with Actions
E.g. “Itsy Bitsy Spider,” Helps children express themselves through use of gestures if they are unable to physically imitate speech sounds yet.
- Snack Time Chats
Using mealtime to introduce new words and requests especially when you have a foodie! For example: “yummy, isn’t it?” “oh you want some more?” “here you go” etc. Keep it natural, avoid drilling and too much repetition. The daily consistent use of the words and phrases would be enough repetition.
When to Consider Professional Speech Therapy
While at-home activities are a great starting point to support your child’s development, they might not fully meet your child’s communication needs. Speech Therapy in The Grounds provides professional and personalised play-based intervention to support your child if your toddler is showing signs of delay in language or social interaction. For example, if your toddler isn’t saying at least 10 words by around 18 months, shows frequent frustration when trying to communicate, or has limited interaction with others. Early intervention can make a big difference—and therapy can feel just like play while supporting your child to build important language skills.
What to Expect During Speech Therapy at The Grounds
Speech therapy in The Grounds is a nurturing, child- and family-centered process designed to support every child in a way that feels safe, engaging, and enjoyable. Whether your child is shy, energetic, or somewhere in between, therapy sessions are thoughtfully tailored to their pace, personality, and communication style—helping them grow in confidence as they find their voice.
- Play-Based and Child-Led Sessions
Your child leads the way by choosing activities and toys that naturally motivate their engagement. Sessions may take place on the floor, in the gym, or at a table—wherever your child is most comfortable. This play-based approach taps into your child’s curiosity and promotes meaningful learning moments while supporting communication, emotional regulation, and connection.
- Parent Involvement and Observation
As a family-centered clinic, we warmly welcome parents to observe or participate in sessions. This allows you to learn practical strategies that can be used at home, in school, or during everyday routines. By supporting consistency across different environments and communication partners, we help your child generalize new skills more effectively.
- Focus on Functional Communication
While developing language skills and speech sounds is important, learning how to use those words meaningfully is even more essential. Our sessions focus not only on helping your child say words clearly, but also on using those words to build real, functional connections with others. We work on skills like greetings, turn-taking, advocating for themselves, expressing thoughts and emotions, and requesting help—so your child can participate more fully and confidently in everyday interactions at home, school, and beyond.
- Support for Social and Emotional Development
Language is just one part of communication. Equally important is your child’s ability to connect and interact socially with others. At The Grounds, we support children in learning how to express their feelings, understand social cues and personal boundaries, and navigate everyday social situations. Through play, modeling, and guided practice, we help them build confidence to initiate interactions, respond appropriately, and form meaningful relationships with others.
- Use of Visuals, Gestures, and AAC Tools if Needed
For children with limited verbal language, we use a range of supports such as picture cards, gestures, sign language, or an iPad (AAC) to help them communicate effectively. These tools are not a replacement for speech, but rather a bridge to help your child express their needs, thoughts, and feelings while supporting the development of their verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
Ready to Support Your Toddler’s Speech Journey?
Remember, every child’s journey is unique, and it’s okay to ask for help along the way. Seeking support is a powerful step toward giving your child the best possible start in communication and learning. At The Grounds, we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way—please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Together, we can help your child thrive!
Frequently Asked Questions About Speech Therapy for Toddlers in Singapore
1. At what age should a toddler see a speech therapist?
Every child develops at their own pace, but it’s a good idea to consider a speech therapy evaluation if your toddler shows signs of speech or language delays by around 18 to 24 months.
2. Can a 2-year-old have speech therapy?
Yes, a 2-year-old can definitely benefit from speech therapy. Early intervention helps set a strong foundation for communication skills and overall development.
3. Does speech therapy really work for toddlers?
Yes, speech therapy can be very effective for toddlers, especially when started early. With early intervention, many toddlers make significant progress in their speech and language skills, which helps them communicate more clearly and confidently.
4. How much does speech therapy cost in Singapore?
There is a range between $180 -$400 depending on experience and demand of a therapist. For our specific rates and packages, please view our speech and language therapy services.
5. Can I join my toddler during the therapy session?
Yes! Parents are warmly encouraged to join therapy sessions. Being part of the session helps you understand the learning goals and observe effective, practical strategies that you can easily use at home to support your child’s ongoing progress outside the clinic.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Jing Ke KOH is the Clinical Director and Principal Speech Therapist at The Grounds. With a deep belief in play-based learning and parent collaboration, she has dedicated her career to helping neurodivergent children thrive through early intervention. Jing Ke advocates for the power of immersive, strengths-based therapy and envisions an inclusive society where every child is recognised for their unique potential.
Winnie Ong is a Senior Speech Therapist at The Grounds. For an inclusive setting, she strongly believes in intentionally planning the success of her kids. Winnie looks forward to paving the way with parents and educators to create opportunities for all kids to learn and play in every setting. While at that, Winnie also emphasises support with love and kindness. After all, childhood is not forever but the impact of every experience is everlasting.