As an SLP, I've learned that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to speech therapy. Some students are ready to sit at the table and work, while others need movement, hands-on activities, or sensory supports before they're ready to communicate.
That's where incorporating sensory strategies into speech therapy can make such a difference.
Sensory activities aren't replacing speech and language therapy. Instead, they can help create an environment where students are more engaged, regulated, and ready to communicate.
Why Use Sensory Strategies in Speech Therapy?
Sensory activities create natural opportunities to practice communication skills.
Take Play-Doh, for example. While it may look like we're simply playing, I can target:
What One Sensory Activity Can Target
- Requesting: "I want blue!"
- Following directions: "Make a big circle."
- Commenting: "Look what I made!"
- Turn-taking: "My turn!" / "Your turn!"
- AAC: requesting, commenting, protesting, choosing, and asking for help
One simple activity can target so many different communication goals!
Sensory Activities Can Increase Engagement
Sometimes a traditional worksheet or table activity just isn't the right fit for a student — and that's okay!
Adding movement, tactile materials, or a student's preferred activity can make therapy more motivating and accessible.
Instead of practicing requesting with picture cards alone, we might use a sensory bin with motivating objects. Instead of sitting for an entire session, we might incorporate movement into our activity.
The goal isn't to make therapy entertaining. It's to figure out what helps each student participate.
Sensory Strategies + AAC
Sensory activities can also provide meaningful communication opportunities for students who use AAC.
During a sensory activity, students can practice:
And because there is a real reason to communicate, these words become functional rather than simply something we're practicing on a worksheet.
Sensory Support Should Have a Purpose
One thing I always remind myself is that sensory strategies should support communication — not become the goal.
Before adding a sensory activity, I ask: How is this supporting my student's communication?
A sensory bin can target vocabulary.
Play-Doh can target language.
Bubbles can target requesting.
Movement can target following directions and sequencing.
A visual schedule can support transitions and participation. It's not necessarily about having the newest or fanciest sensory toys. It's about how intentionally we use what we already have.
My Biggest Takeaway
Sometimes the most successful speech therapy session isn't the one where we complete every activity we planned.
Sometimes it's the session where a student who typically doesn't participate finally engages, requests independently, comments using AAC, or successfully transitions between activities.
Those moments matter.
And sometimes, one small change to the way we structure a session can create a whole new opportunity for meaningful communication.
Wondering If Sensory Strategies Could Help Your Child?
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