Caregiver & Me Speech & Communication Classes in Springfield, IL: What to Expect!

Caregiver and me speech classes springifled Illinois

If you’re looking for a supportive way to build your child’s early speech and communication skills in a fun and engaging way, Caregiver & Me classes at UniVie Therapy in Springfield, IL may be a great fit!

Caregiver & Me classes are small, intentionally designed speech and communication classes for young children ages 1-3 and their caregivers to attend together.

Instead of dropping your child off or watching from the sidelines, you participate alongside them.

The focus is on early speech and language development through play, sign-language, connection, and everyday interaction, the same kinds of moments that already happen at home.

Caregiver speech classes are led by licensed speech therapists who guide activities and help caregivers understand how communication develops and how to support their child in real time. Because group size is limited, the environment stays calm, supportive, and welcoming for both children and adults.

The Purpose of Caregiver & Me Speech Classes

These speech communication classes aren’t about testing, labeling, or pushing children to perform. They’re about supporting early communication in a way that feels natural and encouraging.

Caregiver & Me speech classes are designed to:

  • support early speech and language development through play

  • strengthen connection and shared attention between caregiver and child

  • help caregivers better understand how communication develops

  • offer simple, guided speech strategies caregivers can use right away

  • create a sense of structure and routine without pressure

Many families join because they want to feel more confident supporting communication, not because something is “wrong.”

What Happens During a Typical Caregiver and Me Speech Class?

Each class is about 45 minutes and follows a predictable, child-friendly flow. Sessions are play-based and designed to feel engaging rather than overwhelming.

You can expect a mix of:

  • play-based activities that encourage speech and communication

  • songs and simple routines that support language and participation

  • movement and interaction to keep little bodies engaged

  • caregiver education woven naturally into the session

Caregivers are actively involved the entire time! You’re shown how speech and communication skills are supported during play, songs, and routines and you get to try those speech strategies with your child as the class unfolds.

Who Are These Classes For?

Caregiver & Me speech classes are a good fit for:

  • young children (typically ages 1–3) and their caregiver

  • families who want to support early speech and communication

  • children with a wide range of learning styles and abilities

Your child does not need a speech diagnosis to attend. These classes are open to all learners and are often a good option for families who want guidance, structure, and connection, even if they’re still figuring out what kind of speech support their child may need.

Are Caregiver & Me Classes the Same as Speech Therapy?

No. Caregiver & Me speech classes are not speech therapy and do not replace individualized speech-language services.

Think of them as a supportive, educational option rather than treatment. They’re designed for families who want:

  • help understanding early speech communication

  • practical speech strategies for kids they can use at home

  • structured interaction in a group setting

  • community without feeling overwhelmed

For some families, these classes are a first step. For others, they complement speech services their child is already receiving.

Why Enrollment Is Intentionally Limited

One of the most important parts of Caregiver & Me speech classes is that they’re kept small and intentionally limited.

Smaller group sizes allow for:

  • a calmer, safer learning environment

  • more individualized guidance within the group

  • meaningful relationship-building

  • space for caregivers to ask questions and feel supported

This isn’t a large, drop-in playgroup. It’s an intentionally designed space where both children and caregivers can feel comfortable and engaged.

Questions About Caregiver & Me Speech Consults

Below are a few FAQs about Caregiver & Me Speech Classes:

1. What ages are included in Caregiver & Me classes?

Caregiver & Me classes are designed for young children, typically ages 1–3, along with their caregiver. The activities, routines, and pacing are all tailored to this early stage of communication and development. If you’re unsure whether your child falls within the right age range, the waitlist is a great place to start and ask questions as sessions are announced.

2. Does my child need a speech delay or diagnosis to participate?

No. A child does not need a speech delay, diagnosis, or referral to join Caregiver & Me speech classes. These classes are open to all learners and are meant to support early communication and connection, not to diagnose or treat. Many families join simply because they want guidance on how to support speech and language development through play.

3. What will we actually be doing during class?

Classes are play-based and interactive. You can expect a mix of guided play, songs, simple routines, and movement activities that naturally encourage communication. Caregivers participate alongside their child and are shown how speech and language are supported during these activities, so learning happens in the moment rather than through lecture.

4. Will I be participating with my child the whole time?

Yes, that’s the goal! Caregiver & Me speech classes are designed for you and your child to participate together. Rather than observing from the sidelines, caregivers are actively involved throughout the speech session. This allows you to practice strategies with your child during real interactions and take what you learn back into everyday life at home.

Caregiver & Me speech classes are intentionally designed to be inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and welcoming, whether this is your first time seeking support or you’ve explored other services before.

How to Join Future Caregiver & Me Speech Class in Springfield, IL

Caregiver & Me speech and communication classes are launching soon for families in Springfield, IL and surrounding areas! Because space is limited, families interested in future sessions are encouraged to join the waitlist.

Joining the waitlist means you’ll:

  • get early updates when sessions are announced

  • be notified when registration opens

  • receive details about schedules and availability

Caregiver and me classes waitlist

A Supportive Way to Start

Caregiver & Me classes offer a gentle, structured way to support early speech and communication, through play, connection, and shared experience.

If you’re looking for guidance, education, and a supportive space to learn alongside your child, joining the waitlist is the best next step!

Hi, I’m Daj! Founder of UniVie Therapy

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I started UniVie Therapy Solutions with one simple goal: to help individuals of all ages communicate with confidence! My work is grounded in personalized, evidence-based support that honors each person’s strengths, needs, and differences. Whether I’m working with children, families, caregivers, or individuals, my approach is always collaborative, affirming, and focused on real-life communication.

If you’d like to learn more or stay connected, here are a few helpful resources:

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