Speech Therapy on the Go: Early Intervention in Public Spaces

Hey there, SLP friends! 👋🏼

Let’s talk about something that might just change the game for your early intervention sessions… are you ready?

You don’t have to do every session at home.

Yep, that’s right. Most states allow early intervention sessions to take place in public settings when the home just isn’t cutting it. That means places like playgrounds, libraries, grocery stores, and more can become your therapy playground (pun intended).

When Home Sweet Home Isn’t The Best Option...

Let’s face it—sometimes the home environment just isn’t ideal. Maybe it’s allergy central with pets, dust, or that mystery smell coming from the carpet. Maybe it’s just too chaotic or the parent prefers meeting somewhere else. Whatever the reason, it’s always handy to have a Plan B that keeps the session productive (and your sanity intact).

Enter: Public settings. These places can offer fresh opportunities, but also come with their own unique set of quirks. Let’s break down how to tackle them like the therapy rockstars we are.

1. Keep Expectations Steady

Just because the where has changed doesn’t mean the why and what have to. Goals stay the same whether you’re sitting on a park bench or by the peas in the grocery store freezer aisle.

👉 Pro tip: Set the stage for success by explaining to the parent what you’ll be working on, even if the setting’s different. Keep the focus on coaching, modeling, and encouraging that all-important parent involvement. Consistency is key, even when your “office” has a slide and a sandbox.

2. Embrace the Chaos (a.k.a. Roll with the Punches)

Public places = unpredictability. There’s no getting around it. Maybe the playground is packed, it starts raining mid-session, or curious strangers want to know what you’re doing with puppets and bubbles.

Here’s the thing: these curveballs are actually golden opportunities. 🎯

• Distractions? Great chance to model regulation strategies.

• Other kids nearby? Perfect time to observe social interactions and joint play.

• Interruptions? A real-life lesson in therapist flexibility and quick thinking.

Remember, you’re showing parents how to use these environments as-is, which is real life at its finest.

3. Give Parents Something to Hold Onto (Literally)

New environments can feel a bit like stepping into the unknown for parents. Help them feel grounded by offering clear, simple reminders—both verbal and visual.

👉 Bring a little handout or visual aid that outlines the session’s goals and strategies. It doesn’t need to be fancy—just something to refer to when things get a bit hectic.

Need something to print and use tomorrow? 

Check out my Parent Carryover Pages! They're great to give to parents for them to read over and utilize at home! 

4. Backup Activities = Your Secret Weapon

Sometimes, despite your best planning, the setting is a total bust. The playground’s a mud pit, the library’s eerily quiet, or your client is just not having it.

This is when your backup bag of tricks saves the day. Think small, portable, and engaging:

• Bubbles – Because bubbles fix everything.

• Magnetic drawing boards – Mess-free fun.

• Hand puppets – Great for modeling language and play.

• Mini books or flashcards – Easy to pull out on the fly.

It’s all about being ready to pivot if things go sideways—which, let’s be honest, they often do!

Taking early intervention sessions into public spaces can feel a bit intimidating at first—but it also opens the door to real-world learning, dynamic experiences, and endless coaching moments for parents.

With a little flexibility, some solid planning, and a sense of humor, you can make these sessions just as impactful (and maybe even more fun) than traditional home visits.

So next time a home setting isn’t an option, don’t sweat it. Pack your bubbles, grab a visual aid, and head out into the wild. You’ve got this!

Ready to take your early intervention sessions on the road? Share your favorite public places to do therapy—and your go-to backup activities—in the comments!

Happy speeching!

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