Phonological Awareness Skills
Children playing with….sounds?!?! When most of us think about children playing, we usually think about things like blocks, puzzles, and other toys. But it’s also important for young children (and their families) to play with sounds – the sounds in their language. Doing so not only helps children learn how to pronounce these speech sounds but also…
How to Utilize a Timeless Author’s Books to Develop Speech & Language Skills
Dr. Seuss is a household name. Did you know his books can be used to develop speech & language skills? The next time you read one of your favorite Dr. Seuss books with your family, try incorporating these tips from our speech-language pathologists! Developing Vocabulary: Books are great for learning new vocabulary pertaining to a…
Smile Mask: How To
While individuals in our community are doing their part to slow the spread of Covid-19 by wearing face coverings, it has created a new challenge for those who rely or can benefit from lip reading. Mastering the new normal of communication with a face covering, while social distancing six feet away is difficult for anyone,…
Sensory Bin Fun!
Sensory bins are a favorite tool of speech therapists, teachers and parents alike! They provide an immersive, hands-on opportunity for children to practice their speech and language skills. Here’s what you need to know to integrate this easy tool into your life. What is a sensory bin? Tub or container filled with materials carefully selected…
Activities to Celebrate Diversity
Every day, adults and children alike are learning how to be more inclusive and celebrate the beautiful diversity in our world. Here are a few activities to help you and your family listen, learn, and grow in this pursuit. Read Reading books that have racially and culturally diverse characters help children see, learn about, and…
Hidden Messages
How fun is this?! Create and send “secret messages” with this activity! This could also be a motivating way to sneak in some speech practice, too. Whether it’s a word list, short messages, a card or pictures of items with your child’s speech sounds, this is sure to be a hit! 1. Grab markers, a…
How to Get the Most Out of Toy Time
A trip to the toy store isn’t so simple (or cheap) these days. Parents and kids are flooded with nearly every kind of toy imaginable—from trucks with loud sirens, dolls that talk, balls that flash, and tablets that do everything under the sun. Sometimes these toys can be fun, but they’re not always worth the…
Our Speech Therapists’ Five Favorite Picture Books for Kindergarteners
Ding dong! Is that the bell? The school bell? Classes are starting across the country and that includes your kindergartener who you can’t believe is growing up so fast. Luckily there’s never a bad time to make a trip to the library or bookstore to find new books to enjoy with your child. Here are the five…
Five toys you have in your house right now that can help prepare your child for kindergarten
Toys, toys, toys! Not only can they be used for play, but also for teaching and preparing your child for school. There are all kinds of expensive educational toys available in stores today, but sometimes all it takes are the classics to introduce young kids to the basics of vocabulary, language concepts and following directions….
The Power of a Point
By: Abbey Vielhaber Why Is Pointing Important? Helps direct attention to what we see or are thinking about Helps bridge the gap between 1-2 word phrases Why Do Children Point? To tell us something To ask a question To ask for something How to Respond when your Child Points: Label what they are pointing at…