The Speech Community reset ends on June 19. Over the coming weeks, I’ll be introducing weekly communication challenges, more opportunities to connect with other parents, and ongoing support from a pediatric speech-language pathologist. If you’d like to remain part of the community, please make sure you’ve responded to the original reset post. 👉 Comment “I’m in” or like the original reset post by June 19 to keep your access. I’d love to have you continue with us as we move into this next phase of the community!

Research shows that gestures are not “just gestures.” They are an important part of early language development. Before children start using two-word phrases, they often communicate that same type of message by combining one word with one gesture. This shows they are starting to combine two ideas, even if they are not using two spoken words yet. This was actually a topic that came up in our first Classroom meeting when we talked about helping children move toward independent two-word phrases. Gesture + word combinations can be an important step in that process. Examples: - Pointing to crackers + saying “more” - Reaching up + saying “mama” - Pointing to the door + saying “go” - Holding out a toy + saying “help” - Pointing to bubbles + saying “open” - Waving + saying “bye” - Pointing to a dog + saying “woof” - Giving you a cup + saying “milk” - Pointing to a car + saying “dada” - Holding up a shoe + saying “on” These gesture + word combinations can be a sign that your child is getting closer to using two-word phrases verbally. So when your child points, reaches, waves, or shows you something while using a word, treat it as meaningful communication and model the next step. For example, if your child points to crackers and says “more,” you can model: “More crackers!”

We’re officially starting bi-weekly Classroom calls! Our first call will be Wednesday, 5/13 at 2:30 PM, and this first one will be open to everyone. After that, the calls will be for Classroom members only. These calls will be a space to ask questions, talk through strategies, troubleshoot what’s coming up at home, and get more support as you work through the Classroom resources. I’m excited to have a regular time to connect and make this space even more helpful. Drop a comment/like if you’re planning to join and share any topics you'd like covered!

I’m excited to share something new inside the classroom… Starting next month (May), I’ll be hosting monthly live calls for members 🤍 These calls will be a space to: – Ask questions – Get guidance on what to do next – Learn how to use strategies during your everyday routines To make sure I’m supporting you in the most helpful way, these calls will focus on parent coaching and general strategies (not individualized evaluation or therapy). My goal is to help you feel more confident and clear on how to support your child day-to-day. I’d love your input 👇What topics would you want covered on these calls? You can comment below! Ideas: – Building vocabulary – How to get your child to respond – Using specific routines to support language development (mealtime, bath, play) -- Imitation -- Teaching gestures – Expanding from words to phrases – AAC / signs – Something else? Let me know!

Dear Samantha, Is there a possibilty to start a Zoom Call group for premium members with you? Where we can get in touch and ask Maybe some questions? Maybe once a month? How do you think about it?