Why Homework Still Matters in Speech Therapy (and How to Make It Work!)

Hey, speech friend! 👋🏼

Let’s talk about homework. Yep—the word that makes kids groan, parents sigh, and sometimes even us therapists roll our eyes. But here’s the thing: when it comes to speech therapy, homework isn’t just busy work. It’s one of the most powerful tools we have to boost progress and help those speech and language skills stick.

Carryover is the Secret Ingredient

We all know that the magic doesn’t happen only in the therapy room—it happens when kids start using those skills out in the “real world.” Homework creates that bridge. Whether it’s practicing articulation words, reviewing WH-questions, or trying out fluency strategies, homework encourages carryover at home. It gives our students more chances to practice, and those extra reps add up fast.

Homework Can Target Almost Anything

The great thing about speech homework? It’s flexible! Depending on the student, homework might include:

• Practicing target sounds in words, phrases, or sentences

• Reading passages to work on fluency

• Matching activities for phonological awareness

• Simple games for language concepts

• Conversation starters to practice pragmatic language

• Coloring or code-by-number sheets tied to sounds or vocabulary

Whether you’re working on apraxia, phonological processes, articulation, or social skills—there’s a homework option that fits.

Families Become Part of the Team

Another bonus? Homework opens the door for families to be more involved. When parents (or siblings, grandparents, etc.) get a peek at what’s being worked on, they’re more likely to support the process. Instead of speech feeling like a “once a week” thing, it becomes part of everyday routines—reading a bedtime story, chatting at the dinner table, or even while driving in the car.

This doesn’t mean families need to run therapy at home (no one has time for that!). But a few minutes of guided practice or encouragement can make a big difference. Homework helps families feel like partners, not just spectators.

Consistency Builds Confidence

We’ve all had that student who nails their /r/ in the session but “forgets” it on the playground. Homework helps close that gap. The more often kids are reminded to practice, the more natural it becomes.

Consistent homework across the school year reinforces what we do in therapy and helps kids gain confidence in using their skills beyond our sessions. And when students start hearing their own progress at home? That’s a game-changer for motivation.

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Keeping It Doable

Of course, the key to making homework effective is to keep it realistic. If it feels overwhelming, it won’t get done. Think short, simple, and engaging. Even five minutes a day is more powerful than one long practice session once a week.

I love to send home activities that feel like play but still target specific skills—things like interactive games, coloring sheets, or fun reading passages. When students enjoy the practice, families are much more likely to stick with it.

The Bottom Line

Homework in speech therapy isn’t about piling on more work. It’s about creating opportunities for practice, involving families, and helping kids carry those skills into everyday life.

When done consistently (and in a way that’s fun and approachable), homework is one of the best ways to see lasting progress in articulation, language, fluency, and beyond.

So yes, homework really does matter in speech therapy—because those little moments of practice at home can lead to big wins in communication.