Myth: ASL (American Sign Language), AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication), or bilingualism will cause a speech delay. This is one of the most common concerns parents have, and fortunately, the research is very clear: using ASL, AAC, or multiple languages does not delay speech development. In fact, these supports often help language develop faster because they give children more ways to communicate while speech is still emerging. When children have access to gestures, signs, AAC, or more than one language, they are still building the same underlying skills: • understanding words • connecting meaning to symbols • learning how communication works • taking turns in conversation These skills support speech. They do not compete with it. Here is what the research consistently shows: ASL and gestures:Using signs or gestures often encourages speech, because children can communicate successfully and experience the power of language earlier. AAC (communication devices, picture systems, etc.): AAC does not prevent speech. Many children actually increase their spoken language once they have a reliable way to communicate. Multiple languages: Children around the world grow up bilingual or multilingual. Exposure to more than one language does not cause language delays. If a delay exists, it would appear across languages, not because of them. The bigger risk is actually waiting to give a child communication tools because of fear it might slow speech. When children cannot communicate, frustration increases and opportunities to practice language decrease. The goal is not to limit communication. The goal is to expand it. Every sign, symbol, gesture, or word is another pathway to language.

Check out the attached handout that accompanies this video. I know it's long but here is a deep dive into pointing with the HOW at the end.

My 14 month old said mamma and i’m pretty sure a hear mum in there as well when he repeatedly says it❤️❤️ Also in the same week he’s finally got the hang of drinking from his cup instead of his bottle!! 2 big wins this week!! Super proud of him x

I put together a handout on picky eating that you might find useful if you have a picky eater. Remember that eating is a skill that develops over time. Pressure backfires, and small steps count. Feel free to download and ask any questions here!

So I have two wins to share! 1) My girl started making the “nnn” consonant sound! No words with it yet but great progress! 2) Riley rejects any food with texture (e.g. won’t eat mashed sweet potato but will chow down on sweet potato puree). Yesterday I offered her a puff and she actually BIT into it a few times! Didn’t eat it, but that’s still huge for her!