Frequently Asked Questions

  • A Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) diagnoses and treats speech, language, cognitive, voice, and feeding-swallowing disorders in children and adults. At Sunny Side Speech Therapy, we specialize in helping children ages 1-18 years old with speech sound difficulties, expressive and receptive language delays, and other communication challenges.

  • Speech refers to the physical production of sounds using the lips, tongue, and jaw to form words.

    Language involves using words (or gestures) to express thoughts, ideas, and needs.

    • Expressive language is how we communicate our thoughts.

    • Receptive language is our ability to understand what others say.

  • We offer comprehensive speech-language screenings, evaluations, and weekly intervention both in-home and in community settings in the Denver Metro Area.

  • To get started, visit our Contact Page to schedule a phone consultation or a free in-person or virtual screening. Based on this, we’ll provide recommendations. If a full evaluation is needed, we will send you intake paperwork electronically. If therapy is recommended after the evaluation, we will schedule regular sessions.

  • Evaluations typically last 30 minutes to 1.5 hours and assess speech and language skills through standardized tests, observation, and parent interviews. If needed, referrals may be made to specialists such as an ENT, audiologist, orthodontist, occupational therapist, or physical therapist. A full evaluation report will be provided, and results will be reviewed during the first therapy session if therapy is warranted.

  • Sessions typically last 30-45 minutes with an additional 5 minutes for caregiver updates. The frequency (1-3 times per week) is tailored to each child’s goals, family schedule, and attention level.

  • This is the most common question that we get asked, and is the most difficult to answer. Length of treatment is extremely variable and impacted my many different factors (e.g. level of delay, consistency with therapy, home practice out of sessions etc.). In general, therapies are not typically "quick fixes", and do require a family's commitment to supporting their child.

  • At Sunny Side Speech Therapy, we are a private pay practice and do not bill insurance directly. We’re happy to provide you with a superbill—a detailed receipt you can submit to your insurance for potential reimbursement. Since coverage varies by plan, we recommend reaching out to your insurance provider to learn more about your out-of-network benefits for speech therapy.

  • If you suspect that your child may have a speech or language delay, we would recommend reaching out to a speech-language pathologist or your pediatrician, daycare provider, or teacher. They are great at gauging your child's overall development compared to same-age peers. It is important to remember that all kids develop differently and excel in different ways. For more details regarding typical speech and language development, and red flags to look out for, take a look at our Resources page.

    If you would like to consult a speech-language pathologist, we would be happy to provide a free screening to determine next steps. Reach out to us through the Contact page.

How can I help promote strong speech and language skills at home?

  • LABEL LABEL LABEL - Children learn language by absorbing new words and information from their surroundings. As a parent, you can support their development by describing everyday activities—whether you're at the grocery store, going through the morning routine, or tidying up. Name objects, actions, and characteristics in the environment (e.g., "Look! A BIG car is going fast!"). This constant exposure helps expand their vocabulary and understanding of language.

  • Speak clearly and at a natural pace to give your child time to process and understand your words.

  • Be aware of age-appropriate speech sounds. For example, children are not expected to pronounce /r/ perfectly at age 3, so focus on sounds that are appropriate for their developmental stage.

  • Model correct pronunciation naturally. If your child says, “I see the dun,” you can respond with, “Yes, I see the SUN,” subtly emphasizing the correct sound. Avoid frequent corrections, as this may lead to frustration.

  • Incorporate playful sound activities. Engage your child with magnetic letters, rhyming books (like Dr. Seuss), nursery rhymes, and songs such as Old MacDonald or Bingo. These activities help build awareness of sounds in a fun and engaging way.