Question 1

How do I know if my child needs an evaluation?

Accepted Answer

If you have any concerns that your child isn't hitting their speech-language milestones, talk to your pediatrician. They will be able to assess your child and determine if there is an underlying problem causing the difficulty they may be experiencing. The sooner your concerns are addressed, the sooner you can ensure that your child gets the support they need. Recognizing and treating speech and language delays early on is the best approach. A comprehensive assessment may be needed if your child is not yet meeting, or is more slowly meeting, speech-language milestones.
Your child may be at greater risk if there is a family history of speech-language disorders. They could also be at increased risk for a speech-language disorder due to the presence of another condition (i.e. Autism or Down Syndrome).

Other common things to consider:
Is your child’s speech hard to understand?
Is your child over 12 months, but not yet talking?
Does your child have trouble answering questions or following directions?
Does your child struggle with transitions and peer interaction?
Does your child have hearing loss or frequent ear infections?

Question 2

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can call (910) 987 - 4727 or email juliana@leapsandsoundspediatric.com to schedule an appointment!

Question 3

Do you take insurance? How do I pay for services?

Accepted Answer

We are currently accepting the following insurances/payment options:
●  Tricare
●  Blue Cross Blue Shield
●  United Healthcare
●  Medicaid
●  Private Pay
●  Private-pay with an option of a superbill for reimbursement
A superbill is a detailed invoice outlining the services your child receives (i.e. speech and language treatment). You as the family then submit the superbill directly to your insurance provider for reimbursement. It takes one more step on your part, but this way you can seek out the possible benefits your insurance may offer.

Leaps and Sounds Pediatric Therapy accepts all major credit cards, checks, and cash.

Question 4

What should I expect with the evaluation?

Accepted Answer

The speech therapist will get to know your family, hear your concerns, go over medical history, and may observe your child during play and/or use standardized tests in order to fully assess your child’s development. During the evaluation, it will be determined if treatment is necessary. Treatment at Leaps & Sounds Pediatric Therapy cannot be initiated unless an evaluation has been completed.

Question 5

How often will my child go to speech therapy?

Accepted Answer

The frequency of our therapy sessions depends on the speech-language needs of your child as well as their response to services. This is usually determined during the evaluation process. Typically, services are recommended either 1 or 2 times per week. Speech sessions are 30 minutes.

Question 6

What does speech therapy look like? Are the therapists just playing with my child?

Accepted Answer

Therapy at Leaps & Sounds is play-based, child-led, and inclusive of sensory needs. The therapist will target your child’s goals within a fun environment which may include: activities on the floor, activities with a lot of movement around the room, or may incorporate more structured games dependent upon your child’s needs. Our therapists are trained to skillfully observe the child, follow their lead and interests, and imbed speech-language goals the way children learn best - through play! Although it may appear as basic “playtime”, the speech therapist is always trying to elicit and monitor specific responses that correspond with their goals. In addition, the speech therapist will regularly collaborate with you as the parent/caregiver in order to ensure that skills are carried over to your child’s home/school environment.

F.A.Q.

Frequently asked questions