28 Experiences to Build Language
It’s no surprise as a pediatric speech-language pathologist, I try to find opportunities to build language everywhere I go. Introducing our children to new experiences help expand those skills, and keep it fun! Just by talking and reading to children throughout our daily routines, we expose our young children to millions of words daily! Children […]
Fall-Themed Language Building
Ah, Autumn- A beautiful changing of the seasons! Although Fall weather doesn’t come until late in Texas, it doesn’t stop us from embracing all things pumpkin-spiced. Another great thing about a new season is the opportunity to build vocabulary and language. Check out our Fall favorites! You already know books are our favorite for language! Here’s […]
Managing Power Struggles
When it comes to power struggles between caregivers and children, I’ve been looking for answers like many parents. Much of my research includes recommendations like: “Stay strong and be firm. You are the boss.” “You just have to be consistent. Children need to respect you.” “Stand your ground. Don’t give in or they will take […]
8 Ways to Use Natural Consequences
One of the tenets of Positive Discipline is to practice providing natural consequences for children “misbehaving.” A natural consequence is anything that happens as the result of an action or inaction. For example, if it’s raining and you forgot your umbrella, you get wet. When you don’t eat, you get hungry. When you don’t tend […]
Positive Discipline: Punishment vs. Discipline
“Discipline” and “Punishment” often are used interchangeably, but they do not mean the same thing. When we hear “discipline,” you may picture a child’s behavior in need of correcting. However, did you know the word “discipline” comes from the Latin word ‘disciplina,’ which means teaching? Somewhere along the way, “discipline” changed from “teach” to “punish.” Learn more about […]
A Concerned SLP’s Response to TIME Magazine article by Camarata
A recent TIME Magazine article entitled “Why You Shouldn’t Immediately Worry If Your Child Is a Late Talker, According to a Speech Pathologist,” is potentially misleading and has the risk of causing damage to families of young children with concerns about speech and language development. Although the author, Dr. Stephen Camarata is a world-renowned Speech-Language […]
Misbehavior and Connection
There are many ways we describe it – meltdown, tantrum, misbehavior, noncompliant, resistant, defiant, out of control. The never-ending whining, power struggles, back talk, fighting, and screaming. All of it undesired behaviors we often see in children. When our children act out, we can feel embarrassed, disappointed, inadequate, or even resentful. We may feel terrible […]
Communication with Connection
It’s likely when you think of a speech-language pathologist, you think of them teaching a child to speak. And while that’s true, there’s so much more to communication than just talking or using words. Connection is just as important. Communication is a two-way exchange of information, feelings, and ideas between two parties. If I only […]
FAQs about Using Language-Building Strategies at Home
We shared our go-to strategies for helping children learn to use words and increase language skills. But, what if you’re still struggling? As much as we believe in caregivers’ ability to do great language building at home, we also realize sometimes it just doesn’t work the way you thought it would. You’re not alone! Even […]
10 Strategies to Help Children Talk
If you’re looking for ways to help your child talk, you’re in the right place! Please note: This article and it’s content, including linked articles, is for educational purposes and is NOT a replacement for intervention from a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) or professional medical advice. If you are concerned with your child’s speech and […]