Teletherapy for Early Intervention
Practical Speech Therapy Tips That Actually Work
Teletherapy for early intervention can feel overwhelming at first—for therapists and families. Sessions look different than traditional therapy, progress can feel slower, and the pressure to “get it right” can be heavy.
The good news? Teletherapy can be incredibly effective for early intervention when it’s caregiver-centered, routine-based, and realistic.
This page shares practical tips to help teletherapy sessions run more smoothly, reduce stress for families, and keep therapy focused on what matters most. Be sure to read to the end—there are free handouts included.
Top Teletherapy for Early Intervention Tips
1. A Caregiver Must Be Present (Non-Negotiable)
In early intervention teletherapy, the caregiver is the primary change agent.
Because therapy happens through the caregiver:
- A caregiver must be present for the entire session
- Coaching and modeling matter more than direct child performance
- Progress happens between sessions—not during them
Teletherapy works best when the caregiver understands what to do and why it matters.
2. Use a Computer or Tablet With a Stand
Hands-free setups make sessions calmer and more productive.
Encourage caregivers to:
- Use a computer or tablet instead of a phone
- Place the device on a stable surface or stand
- Avoid holding the screen during play
This allows caregivers to focus on interacting with their child—not managing technology.
3. Review a Strategy Before the Session
Teletherapy for early intervention is as much about review and problem-solving as it is about play.
Whenever possible:
- Share a strategy or activity ahead of time
- Ask caregivers to try it during the week
- Use the session to reflect on what worked and what didn’t
This keeps sessions focused and meaningful.
This way, you can discuss how the practice went! As part of the membership program, I like the handouts below!
4. Plan Practice for the Coming Week
While guiding play during the session, jot down ideas for the week ahead.
Effective practice planning includes:
- Choosing everyday routines (meals, bath, playtime)
- Keeping strategies simple
- Limiting expectations
Written plans help caregivers feel confident and supported once the session ends.
5. Brainstorm Toys and Activities in Advance
Ask caregivers to send you a short list of:
- Favorite toys
- Daily routines
- Preferred activities
Encourage them to gather these items before the session begins. This allows you to:
- Structure play naturally
- Coach strategies more effectively
- Reduce downtime during sessions
Early intervention teletherapy works best when play is intentional, not improvised.
6. Give Yourself (and the Family) Grace
Teletherapy for early intervention is new for many therapists and families.
Sessions won’t be perfect—and they don’t need to be.
Caregivers appreciate:
- Clear guidance
- Reassurance
- Practical strategies they can actually use
Your coaching matters more than a flawless session.
Members
As part of Speech Therapy Talk's Membership, I have many materials, handouts, and data tracking sheets. At the moment, I have:
Blank Sheet For Home Practice
- Strategies for specific activities (create your own)
- Brainstorm times of day for practice
Handouts at Beginning of Treatment
- Top 5 Tips
- Late Talker Overview
- Late Talker Strategies
Set The Scene For Strong Communication
- Set The Scene Games (How to Talk To Your Child)
- Set the Scene (With scripts)
How To Simplify Language While Talking to Child
- Simplify Language (Parent Overview)
- Simplify Language Practice Games For Parents - Blocks
- Simplify Language Practice Games For Parents - Food
Imitation Games
- Not Imitating Game - Meals
- Not Imitating Games - Cars
Imitating Gestures Games
- Imitating Stuffed Animal Game
- Imitating Puppet Games
How To Encourage First Words
- 3 Strikes & You Win Overview
- 3 Strikes & You Win- Meals
- 3 Strikes & You Win Playtime
How To Ask Questions Correctly
- How To Ask Questions - Overview
- Asking Questions Games - Toys
- Asking Questions Games - Meals
How To Expand First Words
- Repeat-Expand-Repeat - Meals
- Repeat-Expand-Repeat - Reading
- Repeat-Expand-Repeat - Walking
Measure Progress
- Common First Words
- Milestones 0-5
Access Teletherapy For Early Intervention Materials
Members
If you want to access these pages and you are already a member, please click this link:
Non-Members
If you want to join and access the Google Slides flashcards, please click this link:
I will even take requests! If there is something that you need, please let me know.
A Free Language Resource Each Month
Join my free list and receive a new language material delivered to your inbox every month. These tools are simple, functional, and easy to use for teletherapy or in-person sessions.
Free Speech & Language Materials
Fill out the form below and I'll send your first free speech and language resource.
Benefits of Teletherapy
This blog post from TherapyWorks does a great job reviewing the benefits. Check it out here!
