Kotoroba
A Place to Nurture “Heart” and “Language”
Our Philosophy
“Kotoroba” is a place where pediatric speech-language pathologists support children and families with concerns about language and developmental issues. There is a nationwide shortage of specialists in pediatric speech-language therapy, and it is often difficult to receive assessments or training at the appropriate time.
If you have any concerns about your child’s language, hearing, pronunciation, stuttering, communication, or swallowing, please feel free to consult us.
Message

Satoru Baba (Director, Dentist)
Hachi Dental ClinicChairman / Dentist
Among oral functions, the development of language is a unique human ability and an important part of individuality. It is essential to monitor this development properly before school age. Very few dental clinics in Japan provide speech-language therapy, but dentistry overlaps significantly with speech-language pathology. We believe this collaboration represents a future model of healthcare.
Since there are very few pediatric speech-language pathologists nationwide, many children cannot access adequate services. By supporting as many children as possible, we hope to guide them toward a brighter future.
The name “Kotoroba” expresses our wish to nurture both “heart” and “language.” With “heart” and the ability to express it through “language,” children will grow to thrive in society and their communities. We sincerely ask for your support of our activities.

Takaaki Takeyama (Chief Speech-Language Pathologist)
KotorobaCounselor / Chief SLP
“Language” is a special human ability that connects people and enriches life. Recently, dental clinics have also been receiving many consultations about children’s language development. In response, we decided to establish a place where families can easily seek advice.
This is “Kotoroba.” We aim to walk alongside families, supporting children’s growth in both “heart” and “language.” If you have any concerns about your child’s development, please feel free to consult us.
About the Development of “Language” and “Heart”
Concerns You May Have
- Does not respond when called
- Frequently asks for repetition
- Watches TV with high volume


- Understands only a few words
- Understands but speaks very little
- Unclear speech
- Incorrect pronunciation (e.g., turtle → “tame”, fish → “takana”)


- Repeats initial sounds
- Prolongs initial sounds
- Gets stuck when speaking
- Frequent echolalia
- Talks one-sidedly
- Has trouble playing with friends


- Difficulty reading fluently
- Frequent mistakes in reading/writing
Factors Related to Language Development

- Sensory Development
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- Vision
- Hearing
- Smell
- Taste
- Touch
- Proprioception
- Vestibular sense
- Motor Development
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- Gross motor skills
- Fine motor skills
- Vocal functions
- Lip and tongue movement
- Brain Development