Mr. Rogers once said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.”

Children learn through play, and we often use games and play in speech therapy. Not only does this capture their attention and motivate the child, but it also encourages learning. Ginsburg (2007) noted, “Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them.”

Whatever the age or goals, speech therapy can incorporate play. SLPs provide a thoughtful, planned approach to play-based sessions. It may look like it’s “just playing,” but it’s work!