Tips to get the most from Online Therapy

Tips to get the most from Online Therapy

Tele-rehabilitation can be challenging for those who want to start online therapy sessions. It can be even more challenging to transition from conventional therapy services to tele-therapy. Do not worry!! Here are some tips to get the most from online therapy.

 

1. Get a strong internet connection

A strong internet connection is needed to have smooth sessions. Join your sessions at least 10 minutes in advance. Check for any internet fluctuations. It is difficult to have a successful tele-therapy session with slow or choppy internet. Tele-therapy sessions are 45 minutes long here at 1SpecialPlace. So it is important to make sure there is no time lost trying to solve technical issues. The teletherapist also makes sure to screen for any connectivity issues well in advance so that we do not miss out on precious time. Bookmark a website that helps you check the internet speed and quality.

 

2. Use a large screen device or a computer

Tablets and phones are small screens when compared to laptops or computers. Laptops and computers offer a larger visualization space. Also, Zoom allows various screen sharing and remote options. This can be used only if the therapist and client both use laptop or computer screens. This helps in improved interaction from the client’s end.

 

3. Keep distractions to a minimum

Distractions can mean different things for different children. Distractions can be siblings or family members, pets, toys, etc. When your child is engaged during the speech therapy session, keep these distractions to a minimum. If not, it can draw the child’s attention away from specific goals set by the therapist.

 

4. Find comfortable seating

 Every child learns when they are comfortable in their learning environment. When you have identified any favorite seating area or spot, try to have the same spot every session. It is also important to know that your child may not be seated throughout the session. Give them breaks as and when recommended by the therapist or needed by your child. Also, leave enough room for your child to move when needed.

 

5. Camera placement

 Place the camera in such a way that your therapist can see the entire face of your child. This is ideal as your therapist may not always be able to rely on audition alone for communication. Audition in addition to visual information helps the session become qualitatively better.

 

6. Finish up snacks/meals before sessions

 Snack times can be a great concept to use in therapy. When you are not using snack times, it is advised to finish up snacks or any meals before starting the therapy session. If not done, your child may end up being hungry. They may not be attentive towards the activities well. They may also take up a lot of the therapy time to finish up their snacks, therefore, they will lose on their therapy time.

 

7. Have a helper at hand

 Children who attend therapy require constant monitoring and parental guidance during the tele-therapy session. Many of these children are as young as 3 years of age. Hence, a helper (usually a parent) is always advised to be present during the session. For older children such as teenagers, a helper may not always be required after a few sessions. But it is better there is someone available just in case.

 

8. Maintain your scheduled sessions

 Your therapist will recommend the number of sessions per week for your child to attend. There are various reasons why therapists suggest this. And it is very important that you and your child stick to the scheduled sessions. In addition to progress, this also helps develop a sense of responsibility. It also helps your child follow their routine. Whenever you are not able to maintain the schedule, try to reschedule the session for the same week. This helps with the progress. Try avoiding cancellations!!

 

9. Get involved

 When your child attends therapy sessions online, as a parent you will be asked to carry out various activities. Some activities during the session while some after the sessions. After sessions, your therapist may give you some activities to be done at home. This is very important to maintain progress. It will also help with the generalization of the learned skills. Hence, getting involved in therapy activities is very beneficial for your child’s progress.

 

Consult with us online today!!

Why and How to get started in Online Therapy