Expanding Vocabulary Through Outdoor Exploration
Key Takeaways Outdoor play is full of chances to build vocabulary. Nature collections, bug hunts and cloud watching target describing words, action words and WH-questions. Program descriptive words and phrases into AAC devices for outdoor use. Outdoor play provides endless opportunities to build vocabulary. Whether exploring a park, backyard, or nature trail, here are some […]
Spring Into Speech: Fun Seasonal Language Activities
Key Takeaways Spring weather opens up outdoor chances to build language. A spring sensory bin, a scavenger hunt and planting a garden each target different skills. Program seasonal words into AAC devices and model signs and gestures. Spring is the perfect time to incorporate engaging, language-rich activities into your child’s daily routine! With warmer weather […]
Nature-Inspired Speech Therapy: Ideas for Sensory Learners
Key Takeaways Natural, outdoor settings can support sensory regulation and communication. Rock painting, sensory walks and obstacle courses each target different language skills. Pre-program sensory and action words into AAC devices to support participation. Children with sensory needs often thrive in natural environments. Outdoor activities provide sensory regulation while encouraging communication through play. Here are […]
Teaching Empathy and Emotions Through Play
Key Takeaways Play gives children a safe, natural way to explore emotions and practice social skills. Emotion games, social stories, role-play and mirror play help children recognize feelings. Perspective-taking and turn-taking games build empathy over time. Teaching empathy and emotional understanding is crucial for children with autism, as they often face challenges in recognizing and […]
Valentine’s Day Speech and Occupational Therapy Activities for Kids
Key Takeaways Valentine’s Day themes make speech and occupational therapy practice fun. Speech activities include conversation hearts, storytelling, following directions and social skills. OT activities include card making, lacing hearts, sensory bins and gross motor games. Valentine’s Day Language Activities for Kids Valentine’s Day is a perfect opportunity to incorporate fun, engaging language and occupational […]
Building Social Connections: Encouraging Communication in Kids with Autism
Key Takeaways Children with autism may find reciprocal conversation and reading social cues challenging. Speech Therapy strategies include functional communication, joint attention, turn-taking and visual supports. Parents and caregivers support progress through daily conversation and social opportunities. Social connections play a vital role in a child’s development, but for children with autism, engaging in social […]
Setting Communication Goals for the New Year: Tips for Families and Providers
Key Takeaways Start by reflecting on how the individual communicates today. Set goals together with families and providers using the SMART framework. Prioritize functional communication, build in play and interests, and review progress regularly. The start of a new year is the perfect opportunity to reflect, plan, and set meaningful goals for improving communication skills. […]
How to Track Speech Therapy Progress at Home: A Guide for Families
Key Takeaways Tracking progress at home shows how well skills carry over into everyday life. Know your child’s Speech Therapy goals and keep a simple log of activities and outcomes. Observe during routines, record short clips and share what you see with your therapist. Tracking Speech Therapy progress at home is a powerful way to […]
10 Speech and Language Milestones to Watch for This Year
Key Takeaways Milestones offer a guide to how speech and language usually develop. They range from responding to their name and first words to simple conversations and short stories. Modeling language, play, reading together and interaction all support development. As a parent or caregiver, monitoring your child’s speech and language development is crucial, especially during […]
Gift Ideas for Language Development
Perfect for the Holidays! Help your child develop their language skills through play! Here’s a list of toys categorized by the type of play they promote, along with tips for using them to enhance speech and communication. Cause and Effect Toys Toys that teach action and reaction. GIFT IDEAS Pop-Up Toys (e.g., animals that pop […]