Cozy chats about speech, language and learning
Why Growth Mindset Matters in Speech and Language Therapy In every school, there are children who need a little extra support developing their communication skills. As a speech-language pathologist, I believe deeply in the power of a growth mindset—the belief that ability can improve through…
In early education, inclusion isn’t just a setting — it’s a mindset. It’s the belief that every child brings unique strengths, perspectives, and ways of learning that enrich our classrooms. Today, more educators and speech-language pathologists are embracing the concept of neurodiversity — the understanding…
As we wrap up another literacy unit, I’m reminded why I love using book companions for language development in my speech and language therapy sessions. Each one becomes its own little adventure—filled with stories, vocabulary, discussion, and connection. Over the years, I’ve developed a structure…
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),…
On September 27, 2025, I had the wonderful opportunity to once again be honored at WaterFire in Providence as a finalist for Rhode Island Teacher of the Year. The evening was nothing short of magical—surrounded by colleagues, friends, and family, with the glow of firelight…
As a seasoned speech-language pathologist, I’ve had AAC users on my caseload for years. This course was a fresh reminder that successful AAC use isn’t just about the technology—it’s about relationships, responsiveness, and readiness. This blog will give AAC family coaching tips for speech-language pathologists.…
Recently, I took the 20Q: Neuroscience Applications for Differential Diagnosis and Intervention in School-Aged Children course on SpeechPathology.com, presented by Dr. Martha S. Burns. The course was a deep dive into how neuroscience informs our work as speech-language pathologists, particularly when diagnosing and intervening with…
As I celebrate my 46th year in the field of speech and language pathology, I find myself more committed than ever to continued learning and evolving with the needs of the students and professionals I serve. The field has transformed dramatically since I began, and…
As a speech-language pathologist committed to supporting both language and literacy development, I found the SpeechPathology.com course Obstacles to Language-Rich Environments and Why It Matters for Educational Success by Angie Neal to be especially impactful. It pulled together current research, developmental benchmarks, and social shifts…
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…
