PARENTS

Fast ForWord™ is the first scientifically proven training programme that helps children achieve improvements in speech/language skills in just 6-8 weeks. Based on two decades of research on how the brain learns, Fast ForWord also makes unprecedented use of the latest multimedia and Internet software technology to address the underlying causes of these language-learning impairments.

Fast ForWord products are individualized, adaptive training programmes, which have been described as “aerobics for the brain.” This intensive, computerized programme is designed to help children speed the rate at which their brains can process speech, which then enhances one’s ability to communicate and read. We at Innovative Therapies have found that our own clients’ results have corroborated the research results, showing significant gains in language/learning abilities.

Fast ForWord is an intensive programme whereby children work 100 minutes a day, 5 days a week for 6 to 10 weeks on these extremely beneficial computer games. As a computerized, internet-based programme, it is possible to run the programme in the clinic or at home under the guidance of a certified Fast ForWord practitioner.

Doing the programme at home means that you would be monitoring your child’s daily work on the computer. Then each evening you upload the information over the Internet through a very simple process built into the programme. The Fast ForWord practitioner then receives the information via the Internet, and monitors your child’s progress, keeping you informed of progress on a regular basis, and helping you to work with your child in the most productive way possible.

Prior to beginning the Fast ForWord treatment programme, it is helpful for your child to have a comprehensive evaluation in order to determine the appropriateness of the programme, and to provide objective pre- and post-treatment data. We usually administer two or three different tests, depending on the needs and abilities of the child. If your child has already had this testing, we have several questionnaires you could complete to satisfy this requirement. During an onsite evaluation, your child would have an opportunity to try the Fast ForWord exercises on the computer, to further help in our determination as to whether he is an appropriate candidate for the treatment. If you would like an evaluation by Aditi E. Silverstein during one of her trips to the UK, please fill out the Intake Form and you will be kept informed of future evaluation dates.

If it is decided that your child can benefit from the programme, we would then need to determine if it would be best to do a clinic or home programme. If it is determined that your child and your home situation qualifies for a home programme, then we would train you in how to set-up Fast ForWord on your computer, and explain the daily procedures you will need to follow for a successful home-site programme. This training and consultation takes about one hour.

The cost of the programme varies according to the length of time it takes your child to complete it (usually 6-8 weeks), and according to whether you do it directly with the therapist present or if you do it at home.

Find a local UK provider of the FAST FOR WORD Language-Learning Programmes.