Cozy chats about speech, language and learning
There is an inter-relationship between, reading, spelling, handwriting, and written expression that needs to be honored when we think about teaching reading. There are multiple areas in the brain that are essential in learning how to read. Our instruction, therefore, needs to be explicit, systematic, cumulative, and multi-sensory.
 Most of us engage in conversation easily so we give no thought to the dynamics that are involved in a conversation which can make teaching the skills needed for conversation difficult. If you think of a time that you were involved in a social situation…
ENOUGH! This is the time to stand for the children of our country. We owe it to them and to our future to fight for their right to be in schools that put them first, values them as people and care enough about their well…
Phonological Awareness, Phonemic Awareness, and Phonics are all terms that sound alike but are very distinct. Often the image of an umbrella is used in trying to explain the differences between the three terms, with phonological awareness being the umbrella and phonemic awareness and phonics…
Just when you are thinking that you are safe from observations, the state changes the evaluation requirements and you are again required to have announced and unannounced observations! Now don’t get me wrong I love what I do. I am proud of the work that…
I am forever a student! One of my favorite ways to learn is through a website called speechpathology.com. It allows me to pick a topic that I am interested in and then also to pick how I want to learn that particular topic. Do I…
January 1979 I started my Clinical Fellowship Year as a speech and language pathologist. I have NEVER regretted the decision to become a speech and language pathologist. It has been a phenomenal adventure! When I began my college career I had not really known a…
When we have a structure supported with simple behavioral routines and visuals our classroom and therapy sessions are more effective and focused. This benefits not just the student but also you as the instructor giving you a framework for your sessions. I find that if…
Sometimes the best materials are ones that are inexpensive, readily available and easy to use. I am someone who is never without her cup filled with water and a straw. I have straws stored at home, in the car and at school so I always have…
Anderson et al (2004) American Secondary Education 32. 19-36 gives six practices that have been shown to be most helpful for the student with language learning disabilities in the classroom. Mnemonic strategies: presenting strategies, keywords or facts that need to be memorize using mnemonics can assist the…