Let’s talk about some easy goal setting activities for students! We know that every student who walks through the door of our speech room has a communication goal… or two or five. From the student’s perspective, their goals aren’t always clear to them. Many think they’re coming to speech to play.
As adults, we often set goals for ourselves like New Year’s resolutions, yearly professional growth plans, or life goals. We know how empowering it can be to accomplish something you set out to do.
Let’s give our students that same empowerment. Goal setting with students can build that intrinsic motivation and give them a sense of accomplishment when they reach their goals. Plus, taking ownership of their speech journey translates to higher engagement during therapy sessions and a more positive environment.
So, how do we make goal-setting fun? Here are 5 of my favorite goal-setting activities for students in speech with FREE printables!
1. Wishing star craft
Wishing stars are so fun for the new year or the beginning of a quarter. These are a great way to teach students about what goal setting means.
I tell them that setting a goal is kind of like making a wish that you can control. It’s what you hope to accomplish by a certain point. And with a little hard work and determination, the wish can come true.
You can grab this cute wishing star for free here!
2. Speech and language treasure map
Another fun goal setting activity for students is to make a treasure map of goals. Create a treasure map with different “islands” representing various speech and language goals.
Each island can be a specific target, such as hierarchies of an articulation sound or various goals that they are working on. Students can mark their progress by moving a treasure chest or token as they progress toward each goal. So fun for elementary age!
Grab this free printable here, included with the wishing star activity!
3. Communication goal collage
Students can create a visual representation of their speech and language goals using magazines, drawings, words, and stickers. For example, if they are working on the /r/ sound, have them add lots of pictures of items with the letter /r/ in them.
Encourage them to share their collages with their families, fostering a supportive environment. I especially love this one for older students.
4. Role-playing scenarios
Engage students in role-playing activities where they can practice communication skills in various real-life scenarios. Set specific goals for each scenario, and after the role-play, discuss what went well and areas that need improvement.
Help students review their goals and update their progress based on their reflections. Another great one for older kids.
5. Goal setting charts
One goal-setting activity that can work for any age is a tried and true goal chart. Give students a structured bar chart or line graph that they can use to track their progress. These can serve as a tangible reference during therapy sessions to remind students what they’re working toward.
If needed, you can even help students look at their big goals, break them down into smaller tasks, and set mini timelines. Then, create little charts for each objective to give students a sense of meeting their goals sooner.
Or maybe even find a fun way to goal set with candy!
Remember we always want to tailor these activities to the individual needs and preferences of each student. Additionally, involving students in the goal-setting process enhances their sense of ownership and motivation to work towards achieving their communication objectives.
I hope you got some good ideas to set goals with your students this year! Let me know which activity you try!
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