Pediatric Speech-Language Therapy

Helping children build strong communication from birth through adolescence

At Daviess Community Hospital’s CORE Center, our pediatric speech-language pathologists (SLPs) help infants, toddlers, children, and teens develop the skills they need to understand, express, and connect. We evaluate and treat speech sounds, language, fluency (stuttering), voice, social communication, and sensory-based feeding/ oral-motor readiness. Services are available in Washington and Odon, Indiana for ages 0–18. Early evaluation matters—catching concerns sooner can make progress faster and easier for your child and family.

When milestones matter (age-based guide)

Use these snapshots as general guidance. Children grow at different rates—but if you’re concerned, a friendly conversation with an SLP can help you decide next steps.

0–6 months

• Coos, babbles, and uses different pitches
• Turns toward sounds and familiar voices
• Smiles and laughs during social play

If you’re concerned: Trust your instincts. Ask your pediatrician for a referral to CORE, or call (812) 254-8889 for guidance.

6–12 months

• Uses a few sounds or early words (e.g., “mama,” “dada”)
• Imitates sounds/gestures; waves, points, claps
• Follows simple one-step directions (“give me the ball”)

If you’re concerned: Limited babbling, few gestures, or not turning to name may warrant an SLP screening.

Age 2

• Uses two-word phrases (“more milk,” “go outside”)
• Names people and familiar objects; points to body parts
• Follows 1–2 step directions; joins simple play

If you’re concerned: Few words, limited combinations, or difficulty following directions may benefit from an evaluation.

Age 3

• Speaks in short sentences (3–4 words); tells simple stories
• Easier for unfamiliar adults to understand
• Answers simple “who/what/where” questions; names common items and colors

If you’re concerned: Hard-to-understand speech, short/unclear sentences, or struggles with questions may indicate a treatable delay.

How CORE helps

• Speech sounds (articulation/phonology): Clearer pronunciation and sound patterns for easier-to-understand speech
• Language (understanding & expression): Vocabulary, following directions, sentence building, storytelling, classroom language
• Fluency (stuttering): Age-appropriate strategies to ease repetitions, blocks, and speaking tension; caregiver coaching
• Social communication (pragmatics): Conversation skills, social play, perspective-taking, and school participation
• Sensory-based feeding & oral-motor readiness: Gentle exposure, oral-motor skills, seating/positioning, caregiver coaching
• AAC evaluation & training (as needed): Low-tech (picture/letter boards) and high-tech supports with practical training
• Family coaching & home strategies: Clear, simple activities to use in daily routines for faster progress

What to expect

Evaluation

Your SLP will review development and daily routines, observe communication/feeding skills, and discuss your priorities (home, school, community).

Personalized plan

Together, we’ll set realistic goals and a visit schedule. Your child’s plan includes targeted clinic activities, simple home practice, and strategies for real-life situations (meals, playtime, storytime, classrooms). We’ll decide who should be involved (caregivers, teachers, medical providers) so progress carries over.

Progress you can measure

We’ll check in regularly, update goals, and coordinate with your pediatrician, school team, and other therapists as needed.

Locations and scheduling

• CORE Center – 421 E. Van Trees Street, Washington, IN
• CORE Center at North Daviess – 800 S. West Street, Odon, IN

Call (812) 254-8889 to schedule a pediatric speech-language evaluation or ask about referral needs. Many insurers require a physician referral—our team can help you determine next steps.

FAQs

When should I worry about my child’s speech or language?
If your child is hard to understand, has fewer words than peers, struggles to follow directions, or seems frustrated when communicating, a screening can help. Early support can make a big difference.

What are typical speech milestones?
See the “When milestones matter” section above. If you’re unsure, call us—we’re happy to talk through what you’re seeing.

Do I need a referral?
Many plans do. Call (812) 254-8889 and we’ll help you check benefits and navigate next steps.

How long does therapy take?
It depends on age, goals, and needs. Your SLP will outline a plan and expected timeline after evaluation