Cozy chats about speech, language and learning
One of the greatest misunderstandings in early childhood education is the belief that language development will happen naturally—even when environments are overstimulating, under-connected, and increasingly reliant on technology. But as we’re learning from both practice and science, language doesn’t simply “happen.” It is built, brick…
In my work as a speech-language pathologist, literature is at the heart of everything I do. It’s not just a vehicle for vocabulary—it’s the bridge to listening comprehension, inferencing, narrative structure, receptive and expressive language, and so much more. My therapy units often span several…
In a world increasingly filled with surface-level interactions and distractions, David Brooks’ How to Know a Person is a much-needed invitation to rediscover the art of deep human connection. This insightful and compassionate book serves as both a guide and a call to action: to…
Elijah came barreling toward me, his excitement barely contained as he nearly collided with me. With a huge grin plastered across his face, he shouted, “Are you going to take me?” Elijah, a five-year-old kindergartener, is like a lively ping pong ball, bouncing from one…
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…
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…
My students love this game! You have been invited to a Potluck dinner What are you bringing to the potluck? Can we guess what it might be? This is a receptive/expressive language activity that can be played multiple ways. I was trying to have my…
I have been working with great children’s literature within the whole classroom environment to develop student’s Tier Two vocabulary, understanding of story grammar and listening comprehension skills. I have always embedded some social language skills into these lessons with the set up of class expectations,…
Nursery Rhymes are part of our cultural literature and aids in language development. When children listen to and learn nursery rhymes they are also learning about language and become better readers and writers. They are introduced to new vocabulary and develop an understanding of different…
Hey Diddle Diddle Mother Goose Rhymes introduce students to literature that has been passed down for generations. The rhymes assist the students in learning vocabulary and practice phonemic awareness. Learning these poems by heart assist in developing auditory memory skills. In creating this…