Our Articles
What Words Should I Help My Child Learn?
Understanding vocabulary development in children is vital for parents looking to nurture their child's linguistic and cognitive growth. This article describes the intricacies of acquiring vocabulary including receptive, expressive, and functional vocabularies. It will...
Twenty Ways to Create a Language-Rich Environment for Your Child
Every child's ability to communicate and express themselves grows from their earliest experiences from the words, sights, sounds, and gestures they are exposed to. By cultivating a language-rich home environment, parents can offer their child a strong foundation for...
Advocating for Your Child with Special Needs
Parenting a child with special needs comes with unique challenges and responsibilities, one of which is the role of advocacy. Advocacy involves speaking up for your child's rights, educating others about their strength and needs, and ensuring they have access to...
How Does Explaining Support Language Development?
Explaining things to children is not just about conveying information; it is a powerful tool for nurturing their language development. As children explore the world around them, their curiosity knows no bounds. By engaging in thoughtful and age-appropriate...
Why is Vocabulary Development Important for Your Child?
In our information-rich age, the power of words is undeniable. As parents, ensuring that our children have a robust vocabulary is one of the finest gifts we can offer. But why is vocabulary development so significant? Let's unravel the importance and discuss the...
What are Fluency and Stuttering?
Understanding and supporting your child's speech and communication journey is essential for every parent. In this article, we'll explore fluency development, normal non-fluency, and stuttering. We will share insights parents need to know and offer a few helpful tips....
Pitfalls to Avoid to Help Your Child Communicate
Navigating speech and language delays in children can be a complex yet deeply rewarding journey for parents. It requires a balance of patience, understanding, and effective strategies. This article aims to shed light on crucial techniques and common missteps, offering...
Choosing and Using Toys for Infant Learning
Understanding the influence of toys during the first year is vital. Toys serve as the bridge between fun and learning. Understanding how to select and use toys to support your child's development can transform simple playtime into a rich language and overall learning...
What is Receptive Language Development?
Language is a cornerstone of human interaction, and understanding it is as critical as producing it. For parents, observing and supporting their child's receptive language development is crucial. This article delves into what receptive language is, its significance,...
IEP Success Tips for Parents
Navigating the educational needs of a child with special needs, including speech-language delays or disorders, can be a complex journey. The Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting is a pivotal step in this process, offering an opportunity for parents to...
What to Expect During Your Child’s Speech-Language Evaluation
Understanding your child's speech and language development is of paramount importance. Delays or disorders can influence not only communication but also academic achievements, behavior, and social connections. A speech and language evaluation is a thorough analysis...
What are Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?
For parents navigating the challenges of a child's communication difficulties, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) can open doors you may not know existed. This article provides an in-depth look at AAC, explaining its types, applications, and the...
What is Expressive Language Development?
Expressive language is what we most often think about when we describe a child's language development. It is what we usually refer to as "talking." This article will explain, "What is expressive language development?" It will also offer examples and provide resources...
How Does Book Sharing Help Language Development?
As parents, we all want our children to develop their best speech and language skills. One of the most effective ways to do this is through interacting with books together. By sharing books with your child, you model language and add to the creation of a language-rich...
What is Pragmatic Language Development?
Pragmatic language, often referred to as social communication, involves the ways in which children use language within social situations. As parents, understanding this area of development can help foster effective communication skills in our children. In this...
How are Speech and Language Different?
Speech and language development are central to child development. While these two terms are often used interchangeably, they actually refer to two distinct aspects of communication. In this article, we will describe in detail how speech and language are different and...
How Can Sign Language and Pictures Help Hearing Children Communicate?
For parents navigating the complexities of communication delays in their hearing children, both sign language and picture communication (paired with spoken language models) offer valuable tools for expression. But which of these Augmentative and Alternative...
Speech and Language Development: Second Year of Life
The second year of life is a whirlwind of linguistic milestones. As toddlers begin to explore their environment, they're also making significant strides in their speech and language development. This dynamic year sets the stage for complex linguistic achievements, and...
What are Developmental Milestones?
Raising children is a rewarding yet challenging journey filled with countless questions. One of the terms often encountered, especially during early childhood, is "developmental milestone." In this article, we will explain, "What are developmental milestones?" We will...
What is Communicative Intent?
Communicative intent plays a pivotal role in a child's language and communication developmental journey. One of the most essential aspects of a child's development is their expansion of their communication skills. Enter the concept of "communicative intent." This...
How Do Dynamic Display Communication Devices Work?
In the modern world, technology has carved its way into almost every aspect of our lives, including how we communicate. For children with complex communication needs, the advent of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices has opened up a world of...
What is a Picture Communication Board?
Understanding and connecting with our loved ones is a fundamental human need. For children with communication challenges, the Picture Communication Board (PCB) has emerged as a vital tool, lighting pathways for better communication and interactions. In this article,...
Joint Referencing and Joint Attention Explained
Understanding the early stages of communication is crucial for parents. Two fundamental concepts in this realm are joint referencing and joint attention. Both play pivotal roles in your child's development. This article will explain joint attention and joint...
Enhancing Language Skills: The Role of Music
Parents constantly seek tools to aid their children's growth. Music, with its myriad of attributes, stands out as a significant resource in boosting language development. In this article, we will explore the role of music in enhancing language skills. The Connection...
What is Articulation?
As parents, understanding the intricate facets of your child's speech development can be both fascinating and overwhelming. Articulation, a core component of speech, often becomes a point of concern and curiosity. This article will answer the question, "What is...
Speech and Language Development: A Lifelong Journey
One of the most miraculous aspects a child's growth is their speech, language, and communication development journey. It is a journey that begins before they are even born, as they listen to the soothing sound of their mother's heartbeat and voice. And it is a journey...
Can Apps Help Speech and Language Development?
In our increasingly digital world, parents are constantly exploring new tools to foster their child's development. For individuals experiencing speech and language delays, apps may be a promising tool. This article explores the potential benefits and pitfalls of app...
App Review: Starfall App
In today's digital age, the right educational app can make a world of difference in your child's early learning journey. Starfall has emerged as a top contender, earning accolades from parents, therapists, educators, and school districts. This article will provide an...
Building Workplace Communication Skills for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities
Navigating the workplace can be challenging, especially for individuals with developmental disabilities. As parents, you play a pivotal role in shaping your child's communication skills, which are important for the workplace and independence. In this article, we will...
What is Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist?
Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) play a crucial role in the development and well-being of children in need of their services. These professionals are trained to screen, evaluate, diagnose, and treat speech, language, communication, and feeding and...
Twenty Ways to Use AAC at Home and Five Things to Remember
Communication is fundamental to human interaction. For children who face challenges with spoken communication, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) offers a powerful pathway to develop their language and help them express their needs, wants, feelings, and...
App Review: BrainPOP ELL
Learning language is an enjoyable journey. The digital era has ushered in countless tools to aid this process. One standout application is BrainPOP ELL, an app specifically designed for English language learners. In this article, we will review BrainPop ELL app. We...
Fostering Sibling Relationships: Special Needs
Raising a child with special needs is a journey that brings its own set of challenges and rewards. Often overlooked, however, is the experience of the siblings of a child with special needs. They too face a unique set of challenges and opportunities as they navigate...
What Can You Do When You Can’t Understand Your Child’s Speech?
Every parent knows the frustration that can arise when you simply cannot understand what your child is trying to communicate. Whether it's a toddler just learning to form words or an older child experiencing articulation or other communication challenges, it's...
Why and How to Support Non-Verbal Communication
Picture this: You're playing with your baby, and even before they say their first word, they give you that warm smile, or they reach out for a toy. That right there is the world of non-verbal communication, and it’s huge for our little ones. Before they use verbal...
Pediatric ENTs and Ear Infections Explained
Ear infections, although common in children, can be a source of distress for both the child and the parent. Fortunately, pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists are here to help. In this article, we'll explain the role of pediatric ENTs as it relates to...
What is the Early Intervention program?
In today's fast-paced world, setting our children up for success is paramount. One of the most critical aspects of this is laying the groundwork for their effective communication. Early Intervention plays a pivotal role in this. If you're wondering what Early...
Down syndrome: Speech and Language Development
Down syndrome is a genetic condition resulting from the presence of an extra 21st chromosome. This condition affects approximately 1 in every 700 babies born in the United States. Each person with Down syndrome is a distinct individual, endowed with their own set of...
App Review: Peekaboo Barn App
As parents, we're constantly on the lookout for new, innovative ways to engage our children's minds, support their language development, and enhance their learning experience. In the digital age, apps have become a popular medium to achieve this. The Peekaboo Barn app...
App Review: Bitsboard App
Language and communication skills are essential tools for a child's cognitive development and social interaction. In the digital age, many apps promise to enhance your child’s learning experience. One app that stands out is Bitsboard. This article reviews the...
How Did Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Evolve?
For parents seeking ways to enhance their child's communication abilities, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) offers a promising solution. In this article, we will answer the question, "How did Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) evolve?" We...
How to Interpret Milestones If Your Child Has a Speech-Language Delay
Parenting is a journey filled with countless challenges and triumphs. When faced with concerns about a child's speech-language, understanding developmental milestones becomes even more crucial. While milestones can serve as a guide, it's essential to remember that...
App Review: Todo Math App
Every parent wants the best for their child, especially when it comes to education. With the increasing integration of technology in learning, educational apps like TodoMath have taken center stage. For parents navigating this digital learning landscape, this article...
Can Music Help Communication Development?
Music is an integral part of most cultures, resonating with both the young and old alike. For parents aiming to give their children a developmental advantage, understanding the profound effects of music on a child's speech, language, and overall communication...
Can Parent Communication Style Affect Child Language Development?
As parents, you hold the key to unlocking your child's language potential. Your daily interactions, rich in words, gestures, and expressions, are the bedrock of their language and communication. Your communication style can shape the way your child learns to...
What Causes Hoarseness in a Child?
As parents, we always want the best for our children. So, when we hear a raspy, strained voice, it's only natural to be concerned. Hoarseness in children can be alarming but understanding its causes and prevention can go a long way in ensuring your child's voice...
Where to Find Speech-Language Therapy for Your Child
Speech-language therapy addresses challenges related to speech, language, communication, voice, fluency, and feeding and swallowing. Certified and licensed speech-language pathologists (SLPs) evaluate, diagnose, and treat these concerns. They also support, educate,...
Are Gestures Important for Communication Development?
As a parent, you may eagerly anticipate your child's first words. However, before these words take form, there's a rich tapestry of non-verbal communication unfolding through gestures. Their significance in nurturing a child's communication growth cannot be...
How Do Visual Aids Support Communication and Learning?
Visual aids are essential tools for supporting learning and communication for children with speech, language, and communication challenges. They enhance understanding, improve memory and recall, and provide a means for effective understanding and use of language. In...
How Does Pointing Help a Child’s Language Development?
Pointing is one of the first and most essential non-verbal communication tools a child learns. Often dismissed as a mere gesture, pointing plays a crucial role in the formative stages of a child’s speech, language, and communication development. In this article, we...
How Does Art Support Language Development?
While many experiences can provide benefits for your child's development, art is one that often gets overlooked. In this article, we will explore the importance of art in language development. We will also provide some practical examples and tips about how you can...
Oral Motor Skills Explained
The beauty of a child's first words or their infectious giggles cannot be overstated. But have you ever wondered about the underlying mechanics that make these moments possible? Enter the world of oral motor skills—a critical aspect of childhood development that every...
How Do Routines Help Language and Overall Child Development?
Routines play a pivotal role in a child's growth and development, particularly in language acquisition. For parents striving to give their children the best start in life, understanding the impact of regular routines can be very beneficial. In this article, we will...
The Role of Hands-On Learning for Child Language Development
Language is a fundamental aspect of human development, and the earlier we start fostering this skill in children, the better. One of the most effective methods to enhance child language development is through hands-on learning opportunities. In this article, we will...
How to Help Your Child Speak More Clearly
Helping your child develop clear speech is a vital part of their overall development. This article aims to provide parents with an understanding of the neuromuscular components of speech, the typical sequence of speech sound development, and effective strategies for...
What are the Benefits of Special Olympics?
Special Olympics is a sports program that provides opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities to participate in sports, physical activities, and so much more. This program has been in existence for over 50 years and has grown to become a...
How Does Having Fun Support Language Learning?
Language development is a cornerstone in a child's growth, influencing their communication skills, academic achievements, and social interactions. Integrating fun into language learning activities not only makes them engage but also significantly enhances a child's...
Top 30 Words Related to Child Speech and Language Parents Need to Know
Understanding terms related to your child's speech and language development will help you better support their communication needs, monitor their progress, and advocate for appropriate interventions or resources if necessary. By familiarizing yourself with these...
Augmentative and Alternative Communication and Down syndrome
Children with a diagnosis of Down syndrome may face challenges in speech and language development that can interfere with their ability to understand and use language and produce clear speech. In this article, we will explore how Augmentative and Alternative...
App Review: The Tasty App
When it comes to exploring the world of food and culinary arts, the FREE Tasty app has taken center stage. For parents, this isn’t just an app – it's an opportunity. An opportunity to bond, to teach, interact, and to enrich your child’s language and communication...
What Should I Tell People About My Child’s Speech and Language Difficulties?
Parents whose children have speech, language, and communication delays or disorders often find themselves caught between wanting to protect their child’s privacy and needing to inform others about their child's unique needs. In this article, we will offer guidance...
App Review: Articulation Station
In today's digital age, technology isn't just about entertainment or productivity. It's about education, empowerment, and for many parents, finding the right tools to aid their children's developmental needs. One such tool that's been making waves in the sphere of...
How Does Mouth Breathing Impact a Child’s Speech?
Children's speech and language development is influenced by various factors, one of which is their breathing pattern. While it might seem harmless, mouth breathing can have a significant impact on a child's articulation and speech clarity. In this article, we will...
Understanding Your Child’s Voice
The human voice is one of our primary tools for communication. For children, it's not just a means to express their needs but also a way to learn and interact with the world. As a parent, understanding how your child's voice works and how to care for it is essential....
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS): Insights for Parents
Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that influences a child's ability to articulate speech sounds and combine speech sounds into clear words and words into clear phrases and sentences. This condition can seem challenging and complex, but with...
Navigating Dating Empowering Your Teen or Adult Child: Special Needs
Dating is an important aspect of personal growth and forming connections, but it can pose unique challenges for teens and adults with special needs and communication challenges. As a parent, your role can be crucial in empowering and guiding your teen or adult child...
App Review: Video Touch Bundle
Language and communication skills are crucial for the of a child. In today's digital age, apps can be an effective tool to aid this development. One such resource is the Video Touch apps bundle, a comprehensive set of video applications designed to enhance a child's...
Can Communication Problems Cause Behavior Problems?
Communication is an intrinsic part of who we are as humans. From the first cry of a newborn to the detailed conversations of adults, effective communication plays a pivotal role in understanding others and expressing our needs, wants, feelings, and ideas. For children...
What Are Childhood Ear Infections?
Ear infections, also called acute otitis media, is a common childhood ailment. In this article, we will explain, "What are Childhood Ear Infections?" We will share essential information about ear infections, their causes, symptoms, treatments, and preventive measures,...
Collaborating with Therapists and Teachers for a Unified Approach
Parenting, especially for children with unique needs or challenges, often requires a village. Part of that village is comprised of therapists and teachers who play pivotal roles in shaping a child's developmental journey. However, ensuring all the parties are on the...
The Power of Play and Speech-Language Development
We all want to provide the best possible environment for our children to learn, grow, and thrive. One of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal is play. Play is not just a fun activity, but an essential part of a child's growth and development. In this...
Speech and Language Development: First Year of Life
The first year of a baby’s life is filled with remarkable growth and developmental milestones, with speech and language development being among the most crucial. Understanding this developmental phase can empower parents to support their child's communication journey...
App Review: Unite for Literacy
Parents are faced with so many digital tools today, it is often hard to know which ones are best to assist their children's learning. One of the standout apps in this arena is the FREE Unite for Literacy/Unite Books app. This detailed review aims to shed light on the...
What to Expect During Your Child’s Speech-Language Therapy Session
Participating in speech-language therapy (SLT) can be highly impactful for children experiencing speech, language, and communication difficulties as well as for their families. This article discusses what to expect during your child's speech-language therapy session....
What is a Pediatric Audiologist?
Navigating the world of children's healthcare can be complex, especially when it comes to understanding specialized roles like that of a pediatric audiologist. This article aims to demystify the role of pediatric audiologists, providing parents with essential...
What is Syntax and How Does it Develop?
As parents, we are always keen on understanding every aspect of our child’s development, especially when it pertains to communication. One crucial component of language development is syntax. But what is syntax, and how does it develop? Let’s dive into the world of...
Why is Turn Taking Important for Communication Development?
For parents eager to support their child's communication skills, focusing on turn taking is key. This fundamental skill underpins our human interactions and communication. But how is turn taking pivotal for a child's communicative growth? How can parents best support...
What is Modeling Language?
Parenting a child with speech and language concerns presents unique challenges and opportunities. Effective communication is a vital skill and modeling language is an extremely important strategy to support a child's development. In this article, we will explain the...