Tag: Speech Therapy
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What is AAC? A Beginner-Friendly Guide for Parents
Communication is how we connect with the world, but not everyone communicates in the same way. Some children and individuals may have difficulty using spoken language, which is where AAC comes in. What Does AAC Stand For? AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes all the ways someone can communicate besides talking. AAC…
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Stronger Together: The Magic of Combining Speech and Occupational Therapy
If your child is receiving both speech therapy and occupational therapy (OT), you might be wondering how these two services connect. Do they overlap? Can they work together? The short answer: absolutely! In fact, speech and OT can be a powerful combo when it comes to helping your child grow and thrive. Here’s how they…
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How to Use Songs and Music to Improve Speech
Music is a powerful tool for developing speech and language skills in children. Whether your child is just beginning to talk, struggling with articulation, or working on expanding their vocabulary, songs can make speech practice fun and engaging. Singing also provides respiratory support and can improve speech volume. – Christina Carson, MS CCC SLP, MA…
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How to Reinforce Therapy Goals at Home: A Parent’s Guide
Children who receive speech, occupational, or physical therapy make significant progress during their sessions, but real success comes when those skills are carried over into daily life. Home is where children feel most comfortable, and it’s also the best place to reinforce what they’ve learned in therapy. As a parent or caregiver, you don’t need…
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Why Play Matters: Strategies to Build Social-Emotional Skills
Play is a fundamental part of childhood, but for children with autism and other exceptionalities, engaging in play can present unique challenges. Play-based strategies can help children build essential social-emotional skills, including communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving. This blog explores the importance of play in child development and how these strategies can foster these skills effectively.…
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Building Social Skills in Children: Engaging Activities for Every Age Group
Building social skills in kids requires structured, engaging, and developmentally appropriate activities that cater to their unique learning styles and social needs. Social skills activities should be tailored to individual abilities, sensory preferences, and comfort levels to support development while gradually encouraging interaction, cooperation, and relationship-building. Effective social skills interventions often involve structured play, visual…
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Going To Therapies: Social Stories
Social stories are important for kids, especially those with autism and other exceptionalities because they help them understand and navigate social situations more effectively. Social stories help children navigate new experiences by providing explanations of what to expect, which reduces anxiety and builds confidence. They prepare children by describing the situation, setting expectations for behavior,…
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Helping Kids with Special Needs Transition Smoothly After the Holidays
The holiday season brings joy, excitement, and cherished memories, but it can also disrupt routines and overwhelm children with special needs. As the festivities wind down, transitioning back to everyday life can pose unique challenges for these kids and their families. Here are some tips to help make the post-holiday transition as smooth and stress-free…
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2024 Holiday Toy Ideas for Kids with Special Needs
(click on the title of each toy name for a link to Amazon) The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity to gift children toys that promote fun and learning. As the holidays approach, selecting toys that provide educational value while sparking enjoyment is key. Whether it’s puzzles that enhance problem-solving skills or interactive toys that…
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Preparing for The Holidays with Special Needs Children
Preparing for the holidays with a special needs child can require extra planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Here are several strategies to help your child feel more comfortable and engaged during this busy season. Create a Predictable Routine Holidays often disrupt daily routines. A visual schedule that outlines upcoming events…