#Japan #Tokyo #early childhood #Online Therapy #Speech Support

Speech Support Network at the 2025 Early Childhood Expo

The Speech Support Network participated in the Early Childhood Expo 2025 held in Hamamatsucho, Tokyo, on November 20-21, 2025. This event aimed to bring focus on the challenges educators and parents face regarding speech development support in early childhood education.

During the expo, the Speech Support Network introduced "Online Speech Classes" where speech therapists provide remote solutions to issues faced in preschools and health centers. Many educators from child care and educational fields expressed their recognition of the necessity for speech therapists and speech therapy, highlighting the common concern of insufficient local support.

Current Challenges in Early Childhood Education

In many instances, teachers and caregivers are unsure about how to effectively support children with speech development concerns. Some of the prevalent questions and concerns include:

• - Finding Support: How can they determine the best methods for supporting speech development?
• - Communication with Parents: What is the best way to inform parents about concerns regarding their child's speech?
• - Comfort with Guidance: Many feel lost when parents consult them about their child's speech issues.

Conversely, parents often voice their frustrations:

• - Lack of Resources: They struggle with speech concerns but don’t know where to turn for professional advice.
• - Distance to Experts: Living in areas without available specialists makes it difficult to receive timely support.
• - Education System Limitations: Some parents feel anxious when told to simply observe their child’s speech without any immediate action.
• - Accessibility Issues: Transporting children to specialized classes can be a significant burden.

The Speech Support Network identifies that the shortage of speech therapists in certain communities contributes to these issues. By providing individual instruction through online classes, we aim to make expert speech therapy resources more accessible, particularly in areas with limited professional availability.

Expo Highlights

During the expo, the Speech Support Network's booth attracted a diverse range of visitors, including directors, educators, and companies supporting early childhood education, as well as speech therapists. Many attendees were unaware that online speech therapy was an option, emphasizing the need for increased awareness about remote support possibilities. Additionally, a common theme that emerged was a strong demand for more speech therapists in their localities and a recognition of the benefits that come with having educational support for teachers as well.

Feedback from Attendees

Numerous attendees expressed the following concerns and suggestions:

• - Need for More Speech Therapists: Participants voiced their worries about the ongoing shortage.
• - Importance of Speech Therapy: There was a pronounced realization of how essential speech therapists and therapy services are.
• - Comprehensive Support: The advantage of concurrent support for teachers as well as children stood out.
• - Integration in Educational Settings: Many wished to see speech therapists embedded within educational institutions and developmental support programs.
• - Desire for More Resources: Parents requested informational flyers to help them guide their children.

Comments from Leadership

The insights shared during this expo reinforced for us the necessity of establishing a system where speech therapists can be readily available to offer guidance and support. While online solutions can't replace all forms of assistance, they can often provide support to children who might otherwise go without help, particularly in underserved regions. We showcased videos of our effective online support practices and shared successful experiences alongside healthcare and administrative organizations. The feedback revealed a clear understanding of how impactful online speech therapy can be.

Moreover, many certified speech therapists who currently work in other capacities due to family obligations or career changes expressed interest in online work opportunities. By investing in development and environments conducive to remote therapy, the Speech Support Network aims to collaborate with educators and childcare providers, ensuring speech therapy is effectively delivered to those who need it most.

About the Speech Support Network

The Speech Support Network is committed to creating an environment where speech therapists can always be available to assist those with speech and pronunciation struggles. Our services include individualized consultations and pronunciation practice, providing expert support in various educational and healthcare settings, as well as conducting workshops and seminars for parents and professionals, primarily online.

For more information, please visit our website: Speech Support Network