Speech-Language Program Reaches Children on the Autism Spectrum
Published: Thursday, May 13, 2021
In observance of National Better Hearing and Speech Month during May, the John W. Keys Speech and Hearing Center, operating under the University of Oklahoma College of Allied Health, is highlighting one of its premier programs, iLEAP (Interprofessional Language, Enrichment and Pre-Kindergarten Program), specifically designed to bridge gaps in communication skills related to developmental delays.
The Keys Center has long served children with a variety of developmental needs related to language, speech and hearing. The program also addresses the needs of children with learning challenges as a result of behavioral concerns, as well as typically developing children. Guided by experts in speech-language pathology, the small-group approach enhances learning for children across a broad range of developmental stages.
The iLEAP program has been housed in the John W. Keys Clinic since the early 1990s. Jessica Lathem, M.A., CCC-SLP, speech-language pathologist, and co-director of iLEAP, said the program, though not new, has evolved to meet the growing needs of a population whose educational concerns may be problematic.
"What's new and different about the program is the ability to offer two different classrooms and curriculums based on children's needs; the traditional language classroom, and now the classroom for children on the autism spectrum," Latham said. "We continually heard from parents seeking resources because their children had difficulty functioning in a traditional preschool setting. We specialize in providing services that specifically address the challenges faced by this unique population. Our programming is a direct response to parents who found limited options where their children could learn effectively."
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