Social Language Therapy Groups

Small group programs for children of different ages with language delays, focused on personalized support and social interaction.

children in a circle touching grass

About our Programs

The Midwestern University Speech-Language Institute in Downers Grove, IL hosts programs for both preschool and school aged children. Our programs are run by graduate-level clinicians and supervised by a certified and licensed speech-language pathologist. 

Registration Information

To register for the Fall 2025 program, complete the application and submit by their individual deadline date. Please refer to the program application for additional details including cost.

Please email or fax this application and any additional information needed to:
Email: mherna1@midwestern.edu
Fax: 630-743-4560; Attn: M. Hernandez, MWU Speech-Language Institute

Preschool Programs

The pre-school program is play-based language with focus on children with developmental language disorders. These programs are offered quarterly and applications are required.

The Fall 2025 preschool programs will run from September 16, 2025 through November 13, 2025. The application deadline is July 31, 2025.

Little Sprouts & Shining Stars Application

Little Sprouts (ages 2-3 years)Shining Stars (ages 3-5 years)

The preschool will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

This program will use group sessions to address language skills within:

  • Play
  • Songs
  • Story activities
  • Games
  • Arts & crafts

The preschool will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

This program provides educational experiences through:

  • Daily routines in small group activities
  • Large group stories and songs
  • Playful learning

Explorers Program

The Explorers program is held in a safe and positive group environment that will support children in monitoring and adapting their social language and understanding and thinking of others.

The Fall Explorer program will run from September 10, 2025 through November 13, 2025 on Wednesdays. The application deadline is August 4, 2025.

Fall Explorers Application

Fall Explorers (ages 8-13)

The Explorers program meets on Wednesdays from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m.

We will work to address each child’s specific language and social communication goals while increasing social language skills through:
•   Direct instruction  
•   Skill practice with peers
•   Role-playing 
•   Naturally occurring events
•   Video modeling  
•   Collaborative games  

Please note that group participants should be able to tolerate a 1-hour session once a week. A copy of a recent speech and language evaluation or IEP is required.

Location

The programs are located at the Speech-Language Institute at 3450 Lacey Road, Downers Grove, IL 60515. Please visit our Directions page for helpful driving directions and maps.

Take a Closer Look

Our graduate-level clinicians and certified and licensed speech-language pathologists have a wealth of knowledge to help children with communication disorders.

Expert Reading Advice

Midwestern University Speech-Language Institute Clinical Assistant Professor Cindy Krizizke, M.S., CCC-SLP, M.Ed., shares invaluable insights on how to make the most out of storytime for your little ones.

Contact Us