Child with Speech Delay – Significant Gains in 4 Months at daar

When the child first started therapy at Daar, communication was extremely limited. They used fewer than 20 words, relied heavily on gestures, and often became frustrated when they couldn’t express themselves. Social interaction was minimal, with the child avoiding conversations and group play. Their parents were deeply concerned about school readiness, emotional wellbeing, and future learning outcomes.

The Challenge

• Assessment results at the start of therapy showed:
• Very limited vocabulary — under 20 words
• Difficulty following two-step instructions
• Minimal peer interaction
• Low confidence in group settings

Parents described the child as bright and curious but unable to express thoughts verbally, which impacted both learning and social confidence.

We are so grateful for the team at Daar. They made every session enjoyable, and the difference in our child’s confidence and communication has been life-changing for our whole family.

The daar Approach

At daar, therapy is personalised, evidence-based, and child-centred. The plan for this child was carefully designed to target communication goals while making learning fun and engaging.

Therapy Plan Included:

• Two 1:1 sessions per week using play-based, interactive activities to encourage speech.

• Everyday language strategies for parents to use at home, integrated into meals, playtime, and routines.

• Collaboration with preschool staff to ensure strategies were reinforced in group settings.

• Confidence-building techniques using praise, turn-taking games, and choice-making activities.

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Results After 4 Months

In just four months, the progress was significant:

• Vocabulary expansion: From under 20 words to over 150 functional words and short sentences.

• Improved comprehension: Could follow three-step instructions without prompts.

• Increased peer engagement: Initiated conversations and participated in group play.

• Greater confidence: Volunteered for “show and tell” and spoke in front of the class

Parents described the child as bright and curious but unable to express thoughts verbally, which impacted both learning and social confidence.

Transforming Communication Through Early Intervention
When the child first began therapy at Daar, verbal expression was extremely limited. They used fewer than 20 clear words and often relied on pointing or gestures to express needs. This created frustration during daily routines, reduced confidence, and limited interaction with peers at preschool.

The assessment revealed delays in both expressive and receptive language skills, as well as difficulty following even simple two-step instructions. Parents were concerned about school readiness and the child’s ability to socialise and learn effectively.

At Daar, a personalised therapy plan was developed using play-based, engaging methods to encourage speech in a safe, supportive environment. The approach included:

• Two individual speech therapy sessions each week

• Targeted home strategies for daily routines and play

• Collaboration with preschool educators to reinforce skills in group settings

• Positive reinforcement to boost confidence and motivation

90 %

participation in group activities (from under 20% at start)

3 X

improvement in instruction-following skills

+ 650 %

 increase in spoken vocabulary

Real Results, Real Impact
In just four months, the child achieved remarkable progress — expanding their vocabulary to over 150 functional words, forming short sentences, confidently following three-step instructions, and actively joining group activities.

This case highlights how early, consistent intervention can make a life-changing difference for a child and their family. By combining expert guidance, family involvement, and a supportive learning environment, children can rapidly gain the communication skills they need to thrive.

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech or language development, now is the time to act. Daar’s experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.