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Speech Strategy: Core Word of the Week – Help

sign language help

How to Model “Help” “Help” is one of the core vocabulary words we can teach our children across various contexts and settings! Whenever our children need help matching animal puzzles, or with a toy, they may look to us for help. In that moment, use the gesture for “help” while saying “help” at the same […]

Speech Strategy: Incorporate Core Words

core vocabulary words

What are Core Vocabulary Words? They are a list of highly useful words that make up the majority of what we say everyday. Words that apply across all settings (e.g., during play, while at home, with peers, etc.) Why is Core Vocabulary important? Teaching Core Vocabulary words to our children allows for flexibility across any […]

Speech Strategy: Choice of Two

boy picking out shirt

Choice of Two Hold up two objects and give your child a choice of which one they want. If you see their eyes land on it, they reach for it, or they point to it, you know their selection. Have them try to say the word before you give it to them. “You want the […]

Speech Strategy: Pausing + Father’s Day Crafts & Summer Activities

girl with down syndrome blowing bubbles

About the Speech Strategy of Pausing When you have said something to your child, or you are holding a toy and waiting to play, pause in anticipation to give your child time to listen, understand what was asked, and to respond. For example: You say, “What would you like to play?” Give your child time […]

8 Tips for Reading Books with Your Child + Spring Crafts

parent reading to child

Here are 8 tips for reading books with your child: Vary how your voice sounds. Pause at the end of predictable phrases. Reduce distractions: turn off background noises and screens. Read and re-read the same books regularly. Have a book basket or shelf where a small number of your child’s books are visible. Be animated […]

Self-Talk and Parallel-Talk + Valentine’s Day Crafts

little girl with heart valentine

Here are two language strategies you can use during any activity or task with your child: Self-Talk Narrate what YOU are doing during the activity. For example, when working on a craft, you can say “I’m making a heart!” or “I’m cutting the paper.” Parallel-Talk Narrate what YOUR CHILD is doing during the activity. For […]

Following Directions, Sensory Support + New Year’s Crafts

boy 2021 new year

Speech Therapy: Following Directions The ability to follow directions is a crucial language skill needed for academic and social success. Below are some ideas to practice following directions while cooking. You can print and cut out the badges in the January 2021 Newsletter and then reward your child as he/she masters the nine cooking skills. […]