Less is More: Ideas for Supporting Language Development without Toys

I’m a firm believer that less is more when it comes to planning therapy sessions. While there is a time and a place for customized therapeutic materials, often times toddlers are more interested in a box than what we pull out of our therapy bag. I’m sharing therapy ideas that don’t involve toys. These are great for toddlers and preschoolers. In addition to supporting receptive and expressive language development, the below suggestions are also excellent ways to work on shared enjoyment with your kiddo.

Top Tips: How should I read with my child?

Reading is an effective way to foster receptive and expressive language development, emergent literacy skills (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, print knowledge, etc.), and shared enjoyment in young children. I’ve listed my top effective, language-based strategies to use when reading with your toddler or preschooler.

Language Development, ResourcesAnna OllingerFebruary 15, 2021Language Development, Reading, ResourcesComment

January Favorites Roundup: Books

I’m sharing another roundup of books I’ve been using in my therapy sessions. These books are adaptable based on the age and language level of your kiddos. They are also an effective way to target a variety of speech and language goals. For each book, I’ve listed the recommended ages provided by the author as well as a few ways in which I incorporate the book during therapy. Please note, I choose books based on both a child’s age and language level, so take the recommended age range with a grain of salt.

Extreme Makeover: Therapy Closet Edition

I, like many other people, became addicted to the Home Edit on Netflix this summer. With more time at home, it was time to tackle that beast of a therapy closet. After a few more visits to the Container Store than I’d care to admit, I’m very pleased with the finished product. What’s even better is that this closet has remained organized since I finished it a few weeks ago!

Whether you’re a parent hoping to organize your child’s toy closet or a therapist experiencing a similar therapy closet dilemma, I hope this post inspires you to get organized! Finding things has never been easier!

Speech Therapy, Personal, ResourcesAnna OllingerJanuary 27, 2021Organization, The Home EditComment

How can I support my toddler's language development?

We support children’s language learning in so many ways throughout their everyday routines. If you are looking for some tips on ways to talk or interact with your toddler to better support their language development, these strategies are for you!

What is a speech evaluation and why is it important?

Answering all your questions pertaining to speech and language evaluations! When should you seek out an evaluation? Why is an evaluation important? What is included in the evaluation process? How often should a child receive an evaluation? Can evaluations be carried out virtually?

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