The Link Between Speech & Social Skills: Building Confidence in Kids

Strong communication skills do more than help children express their needs—they lay the foundation for friendships, classroom participation, and self-confidence. For many children with speech or language delays, challenges in communication can also affect their social development. The good news is that speech therapy not only targets language and articulation, but also builds essential social skills that empower children to thrive in every environment.

How Speech and Social Development Connect

Language and social development are deeply interconnected. Children who struggle to express themselves may avoid social situations, withdraw during group play, or experience frustration when trying to connect with peers (Gertner, Rice, & Hadley, 1994). Over time, this can impact confidence, behavior, and even academic success.

How Speech Therapy Helps Build Social Skills

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) use evidence-based strategies to help children gain the skills needed to engage meaningfully with others. Therapy often includes:

• Pragmatic Language Support: Teaching children how to take turns in conversation, use eye contact, and read social cues.

• Role-Playing Scenarios: Practicing real-life interactions like greeting a friend, asking to join a game, or sharing toys.

• Group Therapy Opportunities: Encouraging children to practice communication in small peer groups to build comfort and confidence.

• Confidence-Building Activities: Celebrating progress to motivate children and reinforce positive social engagement.

Why It Matters:

Research shows that children with stronger communication skills often build healthier peer relationships and show higher self-esteem (Durkin & Conti-Ramsden, 2010). Early support in this area can help children develop resilience, emotional regulation, and the ability to advocate for themselves in school and social settings.

Practical Tips for Parents:

• Model Social Behavior: Show your child how to greet others, listen, and respond politely.

• Practice Conversations at Home: Role-play short exchanges to help prepare for real-life situations.

• Encourage Peer Play: Set up playdates or small group activities where your child can practice communication in a safe space.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize each success—like saying hello or joining a group activity—as a step toward confidence.

At tuLIPS Speech Therapy, we believe that communication is the key to connection. By targeting both speech and social skills, we help children grow into confident communicators who are ready to thrive in school, friendships, and beyond.

Works Cited

• Durkin, K., & Conti-Ramsden, G. (2010). Young people with specific language impairment: A review of social and emotional functioning in adolescence. Child Language Teaching and Therapy, 26(2), 105–121.

• Gertner, B. L., Rice, M. L., & Hadley, P. A. (1994). Influence of communicative competence on peer preferences in a preschool classroom. Journal of Speech and Hearing Research, 37(4), 913–923.