How to Be the Best Advocate for Your Child: A Message from a Bilingual Early Intervention & School SLP

Hi there! I’m Eliana, a bilingual pediatric speech-language pathologist and the owner of Monarch Speech and Language Institute here in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I specialize in early intervention and school-based speech therapy, and I’ve had the privilege of working in both Tulsa Area Public Schools and private practice clinics across the city.

Over the years, I’ve collaborated with a wide range of professionals: occupational therapists (OTs), physical therapists (PTs), ABA therapists, special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and more- and while each of us brings something unique to the table, one thing remains constant:

YOU are your child’s greatest advocate.

Not me. Not the teachers. Not the therapists. You.

And that’s not to say we don’t play important roles- we absolutely do! We are passionate, experienced professionals who deeply care about your child’s growth. But we’re not magical geniuses with a secret key to success. True progress happens when families are actively involved and feel empowered to speak up, ask questions, and work as part of the team.

What Does it Mean to Advocate for Your Child?

Advocating doesn’t mean you need to know all the answers. It simply means you're showing up, asking questions, staying informed, and putting your child’s needs at the center of every decision. It means being your child’s voice- especially when they’re still learning how to use theirs.

Here are a few powerful ways you can step into your role as an advocate:

Ways to Be an Involved and Advocative Parent

1. Ask questions—and keep asking.
Never be afraid to ask your child’s therapists or teachers about their goals, progress, or why a certain strategy is being used. You deserve to understand what’s happening in therapy, and we love when parents want to learn more!

2. Be an active part of the treatment plan.
Therapy works best when we’re all on the same page. Ask for home strategies, carryover tips, or demonstrations of activities you can try during daily routines. Even 10 minutes a day can make a big difference.

3. Speak up if something doesn’t feel right.
You know your child better than anyone. If something feels off or your gut is telling you something, it’s worth exploring. Whether it’s a concern about goals, services, or the pace of progress—your voice matters.

4. Celebrate every win.
Sometimes progress is slow, especially with more complex diagnoses. But even the smallest milestones—like making eye contact, imitating a sound, or sitting for a full session—deserve a celebration. Your positivity and encouragement fuel your child’s confidence.

5. Keep track of your child’s journey.
Take notes. Record questions. Save reports. This not only helps you stay informed, but it builds a timeline of growth and allows you to reflect on how far your child has come.

6. Learn the system.
Whether your child is in SoonerStart, receiving school-based services, or in private therapy—take some time to understand your rights, timelines for evaluations, and what your child is eligible for. Knowledge is power, especially in the special education world.

7. Seek help early.
Getting guidance and support early on—rather than waiting and guessing—can set your child up for smoother transitions and greater long-term success. The earlier we identify and address a delay or difference, the more prepared your child will be for school, friendships, and everyday life. Waiting often leads to missed opportunities and years of frustration- not just for your child, but for you, too. Early support changes everything.

Advocacy Is a Gift That Keeps on Giving

Advocacy doesn’t just impact therapy outcomes—it builds confidence in your child. It teaches them from a young age that they are valued, supported, and that they’re not alone in their journey. And over time, they begin to model that same confidence in their own voice and abilities.

Yes, some diagnoses come with more challenges. Some children may need longer to graduate from services. And that’s okay. Progress is never linear—but with consistent advocacy and compassionate support, your child is in the best position to thrive.

A Final Thought from Me to You

As a speech-language pathologist with experience across early intervention, public schools, and private practice in Tulsa, I’ve seen firsthand how vital it is to have parents deeply involved in their child’s journey. And I want you to know- you don’t have to do it alone.

When you partner with your child’s care team, you’re not just helping them meet goals- you’re building a foundation for lifelong learning, communication, and confidence.

So, keep speaking up. Keep showing up. Keep believing in your child.

You're doing an amazing job, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

With care,

Eliana Provenzano-Lewis, M.S., CCC-SLP
Bilingual Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist
Owner of Monarch Speech and Language Institute, Tulsa, OK