Cozy chats about speech, language and learning

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The Magic of Joint Attention: Observing Our Little Ones at Family Dinners

The Magic of Joint Attention: Observing Our Little Ones at Family Dinners

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…

Multi-Sensory Strategies for Story Sequencing

Multi-Sensory Strategies for Story Sequencing

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…

Effective Strategies for Teaching Greetings to Students on the Autism Spectrum

Effective Strategies for Teaching Greetings to Students on the Autism Spectrum

Teaching greetings to a student on the autism spectrum using a multi-sensory approach can be highly effective, especially for those who crave sensory stimulation. Here’s a structured plan that incorporates various sensory modalities: 1. Visual Supports 2. Auditory Supports 3. Tactile Supports 4. Kinesthetic Supports…

Teaching Calendar Skills  Using a Multi-Sensory Approach

Teaching Calendar Skills Using a Multi-Sensory Approach

Teaching calendar skills to students on the autism spectrum by incorporating tactile elements, educators can make learning about dates, days, and months an engaging and effective experience. Here’s a guide to help you teach calendar skills using a multi-sensory approach with a special emphasis on…

Multi-Sensory Strategies for Teaching Sight Words

Multi-Sensory Strategies for Teaching Sight Words

Teaching sight words can be a challenging yet rewarding experience, especially for students who crave sensory experiences and have difficulties remembering these essential building blocks of reading. By engaging multiple senses, we can create a more dynamic and memorable learning experience. Here are some effective,…

Mastering Emotion Vocabulary: Multi-Sensory Strategies

Mastering Emotion Vocabulary: Multi-Sensory Strategies

Understanding and expressing emotions is a crucial part of social communication. For students on the autism spectrum, especially those who crave sensory input, teaching feeling words and how to express emotions can be challenging yet rewarding. A multi-sensory approach can make this learning process more…

Enhancing Speech and Language Skills through Project-Based Learning

Enhancing Speech and Language Skills through Project-Based Learning

A powerful approach that has been gaining traction in educational settings is project-based learning (PBL). As a speech and language pathologist, I have witnessed firsthand how PBL can significantly benefit the development of speech and language skills in children and adolescents. Let’s explore why this…

How to Use the Ziggurat Model’s Comprehensive Autism Plan

How to Use the Ziggurat Model’s Comprehensive Autism Plan

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents unique challenges and opportunities in educational settings. Tailoring the school environment to meet the individual needs of students with autism can significantly enhance their learning and development. One effective approach is using the Comprehensive Autism Planning System (CAPS) within the…

School-Based Speech Therapy: Changing Lives in the Classroom

School-Based Speech Therapy: Changing Lives in the Classroom

In the diverse landscape of educational support, the integration of speech and language therapy within the school day emerges as a powerful catalyst for transformative learning experiences. With the growing recognition of its benefits, educators and therapists are advocating for a more seamless incorporation of…

Harnessing the Melody of Learning: The Impact of File Folder Songs on Early and Special Education

Harnessing the Melody of Learning: The Impact of File Folder Songs on Early and Special Education

In the world of early education and special needs teaching, engaging learners requires creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of how young minds develop. Among the myriad tools educators use to capture attention and foster learning, file folder songs stand out as a beacon of…