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Barry Wheeler, ND
Clinical Notes

· Clinical Notes

What to Expect in Your Child's First Speech Evaluation

If you've scheduled your child's first speech evaluation — or you're thinking about it — you probably have questions. What will they do? Will my child be nervous? What if the therapist finds something?

Here's what actually happens.

Before the appointment

Most clinics will send you an intake form asking about your child's developmental history, medical background, and your specific concerns. Fill it out honestly — there are no wrong answers, and the more detail you provide, the better the SLP can prepare.

You don't need to coach your child beforehand. In fact, it's better if they just show up as themselves.

During the evaluation

A typical speech evaluation for articulation takes about 45 to 60 minutes. The SLP will likely:

  • Talk with you about your concerns and your child's history
  • Listen to your child speak in structured and unstructured settings
  • Use a standardized assessment where your child names pictures or repeats words, testing each sound in different positions (beginning, middle, end of words)
  • Observe how your child's mouth moves during speech
  • Check whether errors are consistent or variable

For young children, much of this happens through play and conversation. It's designed to feel low-pressure.

After the evaluation

The SLP will share their findings with you — usually the same day, with a written report to follow. They'll explain which sounds your child is struggling with, whether the errors are age-appropriate or behind schedule, and whether therapy is recommended.

If therapy is recommended, they'll outline a plan: which sounds to target first, how often sessions should occur (usually once or twice a week), and what you can do at home to reinforce progress.

If therapy isn't needed, that's great news — and you'll leave with peace of mind and a clear picture of your child's development.

The most important thing to know

Getting an evaluation is never too early, but it can be too late. The earlier speech challenges are identified, the more quickly and effectively they can be addressed. Scheduling an evaluation doesn't mean something is wrong — it means you're paying attention.