Cozy chats about speech, language and learning
Literacy growth in the elementary years shapes everything that follows—confidence, communication, academic momentum, and a child’s belief in themselves as a learner. As educators and speech-language pathologists, we know that literacy is not built through one program or one method. It develops through consistent, evidence-based…
As educators and speech-language pathologists working with preschoolers or learners in special-education settings, we’re always looking for ways to make language growth meaningful, engaging, and relevant. The Thanksgiving season offers just that: a theme children already bring into school, full of imagery, emotion, tradition ……
For many children on the autism spectrum, language isn’t simply about words—it’s about connection. A child may be verbal—able to use words, phrases, or even full sentences—yet still not understand that these verbalizations are messages meant for another person. They may echo phrases repeatedly (echolalia),…
In today’s fast-paced, tech-integrated world, note-taking has evolved far beyond pen and paper. For speech-language pathologists (SLPs), this shift is more than just a convenience—it’s a call to action to explore how AI can transform note-taking. I recently completed a compelling course led by Joan…
Inspired by Dr. Shelley Moore and the Life in the Balance Conference This past week, I had the privilege of attending the Life in the Balance conference, where I was reminded—not for the first time—of why I continue to be drawn to the work of…
This past week, I had the privilege of attending a deeply moving and enlightening workshop led by Dr. Barry Prizant, a speech-language pathologist and internationally recognized expert in autism. His workshop, Uniquely Human: Understanding and Supporting Autistic and Neurodivergent Children, left an imprint on both…
Book Review: The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon Sharon McMahon, widely known as “America’s Government Teacher” and admired for her insightful historical content, brings her wisdom and warmth to The Small and the Mighty. This book is an inspiring exploration of the power…
Language acquisition is a unique journey for every child, but for Gestalt Language Learners, the process is particularly distinct. Understanding this approach and crafting a tailored speech and language therapy plan can significantly enhance their communication skills. In this blog post, we’ll explore what Gestalt…
This summer, our family started a new tradition of weekly dinners, alternating between two homes. It’s been a delightful experience, especially watching our grandchildren interact with each other. The two girls, both one year old, are a joy to observe. What has really caught my…
Helping children understand and sequence the beginning, middle, and end of a story is a crucial skill for developing literacy and comprehension. For children who thrive on sensory experiences, incorporating multi-sensory strategies can make this process more engaging and effective. Here are some creative and…