Home Speech Therapy Practice: The 20-Minute Guide for Busy Families | Perth Speech Therapy

by | Nov 17, 2025 | Uncategorized

Home practice doesn’t have to feel like homework — and it definitely doesn’t need to take hours.
With the right strategies, just 20 minutes a week can make a huge difference to your child’s progress in speech therapy.

Here’s how to keep practice simple, realistic, and stress-free.

1. Break it into tiny chunks

Think 5 minutes, four times a week, instead of one long session.
Short bursts keep kids motivated and reduce pressure (for you too!).

2. Use what you already have at home

No special toys needed. Everyday items work perfectly:

  • LEGO

  • Figurines

  • Cars

  • Books

  • Bubbles

  • Drawing supplies

You can weave speech targets into anything your child enjoys.

3. Make your child the star of the activity

Follow your child’s lead.
If they love dinosaurs, cars, dress-ups, or cooking sets, build their speech words or phrases into that play.

Children learn best when they’re interested.

4. Practise during everyday routines

Some of the best practice happens naturally and without planning. Try adding targets into:

  • bath time

  • school drop-off

  • mealtimes

  • playing outside

  • bedtime stories

This keeps practice consistent and low-pressure.

5. Keep it positive and playful

Focus on effort, not perfection.

Try phrases like:
✨ “Great trying!”
✨ “I love how you’re listening.”
✨ “You worked so hard today.”

Positive feedback builds confidence and motivation.

6. Ask your speech pathologist for one tiny weekly goal

Simple, focused goals help families feel confident and avoid overwhelm.

Examples:

  • “This week, we’re working on /k/ at the start of words.”

  • “We’re practising 3-word sentences.”

  • “We’re focusing on slow, stretchy speech.”

7. Progress comes from consistency, not perfection

Parents are often surprised by how much progress their child makes with a few playful minutes spread throughout the week.

Small, consistent practice beats long, stressful sessions every time.

If you want a personalised home-practice plan, we’re here to help

Your speech pathologist can tailor goals, routines, and activities that fit your child and your family schedule.
The aim is for home practice to feel achievable — something your child enjoys rather than resists.

FAQ:

❓ How much home practice does my child need?
Just 5 minutes a few times a week can make a big difference.

❓ What toys should I use?
Anything you already have — LEGO, cars, books, bubbles.

❓ Do I need worksheets?
No. Play-based practice works best.

❓ What if my child doesn’t want to practise?
Follow their lead and build the goal into something they love.

❓ Can I use daily routines?
Yes! Bath time, mealtime, stories — all great for practice.

❓ How do I know what to work on?
Ask your speech pathologist for one small goal each week.

❓ Will missing a day ruin progress?
No. Consistency over time matters more than perfection.

❓ Is 20 minutes enough?
Absolutely. Small, frequent bursts help children learn faster.

Call Perth Speech Therapy on 0412256656

Location: Unit 1 595 Canning Hwy Alfred Cove