Author: Wee Speech PC

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is a vital tool for individuals with communication challenges, offering a range of devices and strategies to support speech. There are several myths about AAC, such as the idea that it’s only for those with no speech, that it’s hard to use, or that it prevents speech development. In reality, AAC is for people with varying speech abilities and can actually encourage speech by reducing frustration and boosting confidence. For example, a child with apraxia may start with a picture exchange system, then progress to a speech-generating device as they improve.  It’s also highly adaptable, with many intuitive systems that users can learn with support. Success stories show how AAC empowers individuals, helping them communicate

If your child is having trouble saying certain sounds, you might have heard the term articulation therapy. But what does that really mean? What can you expect from the process? Here’s a simple breakdown to help you understand the basic steps of articulation therapy. 1. Assessment It all starts with an evaluation. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) listens to how your child says individual sounds and words to identify which sounds are delayed or in error, and whether those patterns are age-appropriate or need support. 2. Sound Selection Once the SLP knows which sounds your child struggles with, they’ll decide which to target first. 3. Sound in Isolation Therapy begins at the simplest level—just the sound by itself (like “s”). The

July is a time for sunshine, play, and relaxation—but it’s also a great opportunity to keep your child’s communication skills growing in fun, everyday ways. Here are a few simple strategies to help maintain speech and language progress over the summer months: 1. Talk during daily activities. Whether you’re at the pool, the park, or the grocery store, turn experiences into learning moments. Describe what you see, ask open-ended questions, and encourage your child to do the same. 2. Read together regularly. Choose books that spark your child’s interest and take time to pause, predict, and discuss the story. Ask questions like, “What do you think will happen next?” or “Why did the character do that?” 3. Play with purpose.

Multilingual parents have a very special gift they can pass on to their children — another language, along with a myriad of benefits inherent to being multilingual. To name just a few, being multilingual, comes with the following advantages: – IMPROVED child-parent connection       – parents who speak a language other than the “majority” language may feel more comfortable speaking to their children in their first (non-majority) language, consequently increasing the parent-child engagement and connection – ENHANCED COGNITIVE ABILITIES, including:      – stronger executive functioning      – stronger problem-solving skills      – stronger memory and learning abilities –  PROTECTIVE MECHANISM:       – potentially delayed onset of cognitive decline (the latter is particularly important if the

Summer and sunshine are here and so is another opportunity to help your child’s language grow! Plant a seed — quite literally — and watch it grow! Start a garden (big or small! in the ground or in a pot! indoor or outdoor!) with your child and here are all the wonderful ways you can work on communication: – talking about sequences (steps to growing a plant) – make choices about which seeds to plant (did you know you can get four       different packets of seeds at the Dollar Tree for just $1.25?) – talk about different plants (describe what they look like, taste like, smell like, compare/contrast) – talk about what tools you need for gardening – read stories

  As a parent, you don’t need to become a speech therapist to help your child develop strong communication skills. In fact, some of the most effective ways to support language growth happen during everyday activities you’re already doing—like getting dressed, eating meals, or playing together. The key is to be intentional with how you talk, listen, and interact. Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact, and the best part is, it doesn’t have to feel like “work.” One of the simplest things you can do is narrate what you’re doing as you go about your day. For example, when you’re making breakfast, you might say, “I’m cracking the egg. Now I’m stirring it. Look, it’s

Whether it’s moving from playtime to bedtime, changing classrooms, or starting a new routine, transitions can be tough for young children. Kids thrive on predictability, so any shift in their day can feel big. But with a few thoughtful strategies, you can help ease these changes and build a child’s flexibility and confidence. 1. Give Advance Notice Children handle change better when they know it’s coming. Use simple, age-appropriate language: “In five minutes, we’re going to clean up and get ready for snack/lunch/dinner.” Visual timers or countdowns can also help prepare them. 2. Create Predictable Routines Consistency builds trust. Try to keep daily transitions as predictable as possible (waking up, meals, and bedtime). When children know what to expect, they