Transitioning from in-person services to teletherapy can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to materials. You might wonder, What resources do I use? The good news is that you don’t need to invest in an entirely new digital library. With a bit of creativity, you can leverage what you already have!

1. Use Your Physical Books

Don’t overlook the books already on your shelf! As long as your camera is focused on the pages, there’s little difference between reading with a client in person or over a Zoom call. This simple strategy keeps sessions engaging and familiar.

2. Incorporate Everyday Objects

Working on language concepts like prepositions? Grab real objects from around your space to create hands-on learning experiences. This approach is especially practical for younger clients who benefit from interactive learning.

3. Create Custom Materials with Google Slides

Google Slides is a free and flexible tool that allows you to upload images and articles and add text to tailor materials to your client’s specific needs. This is particularly useful for mixed therapy groups or highly individualized goals where pre-made resources fall short.

4. Utilize Teacher-Provided Content

Ask teachers for relevant classroom materials—such as articles or vocabulary lists—and share them on-screen during sessions. Use virtual annotation tools to highlight, underline, or circle keywords, making the activity interactive and engaging.

5. Explore Free Online Resources

You don’t need expensive subscriptions to find excellent therapy materials. Some of my go-to websites include:

• Baamboozle – Interactive games for all ages
• Local news sites – Great for current event discussions
• PBS Kids & ABCya – Excellent resources for younger students

6. Make the Most of Zoom Features

Zoom has built-in tools that can enhance engagement. Let clients choose virtual backgrounds or filters as a fun warm-up activity. Encourage shy participants to use reaction buttons (clap, thumbs up, raise hand) to foster participation and peer support.

When starting teletherapy—especially on a budget—these simple strategies can make the transition smoother and more effective. With a little creativity, you can provide high-quality services without an extensive digital resource library.

What are some of your favorite low-cost teletherapy tools? Share in the comments!