What TikTok Teaches Us About Speech Trends
Speech-language pathology (SLP) is gaining new momentum, and perhaps unexpectedly, one of its biggest platforms is TikTok. Through viral trends, creative speech exercises, and the hashtag #SLPTok, speech therapy is evolving in a way that resonates with younger generations. While traditionally confined to clinical or educational settings, these tools and trends are giving SLPs fresh approaches to connect with and help younger patients.
What can speech therapists learn from this social media boom, and how can it shape patient care? Here’s a quick look at what TikTok teaches us about speech trends and resources every SLP can use to better engage a tech-savvy audience.
Speech Trends That Educate and Entertain
TikTok’s short, dynamic videos excel at making speech therapy engaging. Speech-language pathologists on TikTok have gained millions of views with innovative exercises to simplify pronunciation, pacing, and articulation.
Creators use fun techniques to help viewers practice everything from breaking down tricky sounds like “r” to training their tongues to tackle speech difficulties. These accessible, bite-sized lessons show patients how to gain progress and make therapy approachable. For example:
- Viral repetition games that teach phonation (voice production) for younger children.
- Song remixes where participants imitate rhythmic phrases to improve articulation and pacing.
- Text overlays and captions that encourage lip-reading or practicing sight words.
These methods not only keep young patients engaged but also reduce the stigma that sometimes comes with formal therapies. The ability to connect through humor and relatable content makes therapy less intimidating, especially for children hesitant about "serious" speech sessions.
Tools SLPs Can Incorporate
Beyond sending young patients to TikTok, SLPs can creatively apply these social trends to their treatment plans. Here are ways to adapt these viral tools into your therapy:
Create Gamification
Turn repetitive exercises into games. For example, set up challenges based on viral TikTok sound clips to help children practice intervals or challenging phonemes in a competitive, fun way.
Personalized Speech Videos
Tweak TikTok-style content for individual goals. Customize rhythmic text or song patterns that match the patient’s specific needs, ensuring content feels special and motivating.
Use Technology as a Bridge
Encourage children and teens to practice independently through relatable media like speech exercises framed in TikTok challenges. These tools often encourage practice outside the clinic by meeting patients where they are most comfortable.
Salary Growth in Travel SLP Positions
Another takeaway for speech-language pathologists to consider? TikTok is more than trendy – it’s showing how adaptable SLPs need to stay relevant, innovative, and in touch with diverse patient demographics.
Building expertise in these cutting-edge resources can broaden your career, too. If you're intrigued by flexible roles, consider the opportunities as a traveling speech-language pathologist.
Not only does the traveling SLP salary average higher than permanent positions, but it also offers freedom to explore new locations and settings. Working with a provider like AMN Healthcare, SLPs can enjoy competitive compensation, unmatched support, and unique career growth.
Find Your Next Role With AMN Healthcare
Whether you're inspired by innovative TikTok trends or seeking the best traveling SLPs salary opportunities, AMN Healthcare is here to help. Our team connects dedicated specialists with top-tier SLP positions nationwide, from school-based placements to healthcare facilities.
Take the next step in your speech-language pathology career with unparalleled support. Browse open positions with AMN Healthcare today and make an impact wherever you go.
