What is executive functioning? Simply put, executive functioning is a decision-making process that allows us to achieve our goals by responding to our environment in a flexible way, solving problems and monitoring our behavior to change course as needed. A person with an intact executive functioning system can initiate tasks, tune out distractions, focus attention, […]
The Role of Executive Functioning in Communication Read More »
What is core vocabulary? It consists of about 200 words that make up 80% of the vocabulary that we use in everyday speech. These words are primarily pronouns, verbs, descriptors and question words. Some of the most common core words include: I, yes, no, my/mine, the, want, is, it, that, a, go, you, what, on,
Core Vocabulary in the Context of Augmentative Communication Read More »
What are spoken language disorders? Children with spoken language disorders have difficulty acquiring and using listening and speaking skills in the following areas: Phonology (the organization of sounds in language) Morphology (the structure and formation of words) Syntax (the structure of sentences) Semantics (the meanings of words and sentences) Children with spoken language disorders often
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Literacy, meaning the ability to read, is a critical component in the development of language skills. Reading expands vocabulary and improves language comprehension. It provides models for correct syntax and grammar, and it can help children become better communicators. It also stimulates cognitive development by encouraging critical thinking and problem solving. How can we best
How Phonological Awareness Can Enhance Literacy Read More »
Clinicians often prescribe direct treatments to manage speech dysfluencies in children who stutter. Such treatments employ fluency strategies that help to decrease tension when speaking, modify a child’s speaking rate and improve her emotional relationship with stuttering. In addition, indirect therapy has been shown to be crucial in the overall treatment program. (Guitar, 2025). What
Treating Stuttering with Indirect Therapy Read More »
When engaging with a new client, I’m excited to jump in and begin working toward our speech and language goals. However, before we begin working on specific skills, I need to make sure that the child is emotionally regulated, focused and ready to learn. How can we best ensure that children stay attentive, positive and
Positive Behavior Management Strategies in Therapy Read More »
During the past ten years, I have worked with many children who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. An AAC system is a communication tool that replaces or supplements spoken language. A specific AAC system is often referred to as an AAC device. Some AAC devices are downloaded to tablets like an iPad, running
Effective Prompting for Children Who Use AAC Devices Read More »
How can we remediate speech sound disorders quickly? Our primary goal in articulation therapy is to correct speech sound errors as quickly and efficiently as possible. Children who fail to communicate clearly are at risk for increased anxiety, social and emotional challenges, and stigmatization. Additionally, difficulties with speech sound perception may impact a child’s ability
Accelerating Therapy Read More »
How can we best teach social communication skills to children in natural settings? Children with deficits in spoken language and social communication can learn many valuable lessons in the therapy room, but if we fail to provide intensive training for caregivers and properly support families, these new skills may not materialize in the child’s everyday
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We often think that stuttering in children is easy to identify. Common stuttering behaviors include 1) word and sound repetition (go-go-go away; ba-ba-basketball), 2) prolongations, in which the sound is held for too long (Sssssssam is here), and 3) blocks, in which the child tries to speak but no sound comes out (I am…..so hungry). Often,
Stuttering Treatment and the Importance of Counseling Read More »
