When it comes to speech therapy for toddlers, our main goal is to encourage children use functional language—words and communication that actually meet their needs and help them connect with the world around them. But if those communication skills only happen during a session and don’t carry over into daily routines, we’ve completely missed the mark. That’s where managing tasks becomes essential—not just for the therapist, but for the family.
Generalization is so important in early intervention speech and language. To achieve that goal, we must work with parents and caregivers on ideas that are realistic and doable. That’s why managing tasks in speech therapy for toddlers should always include collaboration, flexibility, and empathy.
Because the best kind of functional language is the kind that fits into their world—not just ours.
Encouraging Parent Involvement
Sure, we’re the “experts” in speech and language—but parents are the real experts on their children. Expecting a parent to use strategies at home will fall flat if the tasks aren’t manageable or if expectations are outlandish.
Start by asking open-ended questions:
- “What do you expect to achieve from speech therapy?”
- “What are your expectations for your child’s communication?”
- “What strategies have you tried?”
As therapy continues, keep the dialogue open and the conversation going:
- “What’s something you’d like for us to focus on today?”
- “Any new concerns or wins since our last session?”
Additionally, talk with parents and caregivers about what you’re doing and how it can be applied to their daily routine:
- “I’m encouraging [child] to complete simple phrases. “Ready, set, __” is a great one to use during playtime. Anytime [child] attempts to complete the phrase, I roll the ball. You can do this with cars, balls, or body movements.”
- “When I ask ‘where’s the cat?’ [Child] looks at or points to the cat on the page in this book. This week, I want you to keep track of the ways [child] responds when you ask a question.”
These small conversations help parents feel encouraged and empowered without being overwhelmed.
Be Practical
Real progress happens when strategies can be integrated into what the family is already doing at home. One way to simplify managing tasks is to observe the family’s home and build your strategies based on concepts that are already a part of their routine.
- What toys does the child have? How can use use those toys to encourage language development?
- Are there siblings in the home? How can you implement strategies that empower the siblings to help with language development and functional communication?
- What routines are part of their day and how can you help a parent incorporate strategies for language development? (grocery shopping, car rides, laundry, mealtime, bath time, etc.)
- What kind of social opportunities are available? (daycare, parks, friend groups, mothers-day-out, etc.)
If a parent is at home with multiple children, prioritize strategies that work with everyone present. Other times, there’s one child or a family that has regular outings, so plan strategies that fit into the family’s individual needs.
If You Suggest It, You Support It
Whether you’re asking a parent to create a visual, make a schedule, or introduce a communication board- if you suggest it, you must also set them up for success. This means:
- You make or search for a simple communication board
- Send them printables, templates, or ideas
- Use a session to build the visuals or label items throughout the home
- Demonstrate how to use what you’ve created
Keep in mind that not every parent has the time, energy, or resources to create something from scratch. If you’re managing tasks for home, be willing to show up and help however you can.
Getting Started
Just like we build communication skills gradually, we should also do the same with caregivers. Start with small tasks, build their confidence, and focus on what’s functional for the family.
Here are a few strategies to get you started:
- Narrate daily routines (“Shoes on.” “let’s go!” “we are doing laundry, let’s fold the towels!”)
- Acknowledge all forms of communication—gestures, sounds, eye contact, using communication boards, signs, and spoken words
- Build visual supports that fit their preferences and routines
- Introduce functional signs and gestures
- Demonstrate target words and keep a list for home use
Using simple and functional activities helps families and caregivers feel empowered, not overwhelmed.
Encouraging parent involvement in speech therapy for toddlers is not a quick process. As with everything in early intervention speech and language, it takes time, teamwork, consideration, and support. If we want functional language to stick, managing tasks that work for the families we serve is a must!
When we meet parents and caregivers where they are—they’re more likely to lean in and follow through.
Want More Support?
If you’re looking for strategies you can actually use in sessions and share with families, you’ll love the Communicate & Connect Handbook. This book is packed with simple tools to support speech therapy for toddlers—from building communication to choosing activities that fit real-life routines.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Easy-to-understand handouts for parents and caregivers
- Activities organized by developmental skills
- Visual supports and resources
- Strategies that focus on collaboration and generalization
Whether you’re new to early intervention speech and language or just want fresh ideas that encourage family follow through, this handbook was made for you.
Grab your copy here and start turning everyday moments into meaningful communication opportunities.
