The 3 Rs – Helping Kids with Communication Disorders

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Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic

Even though studying the 3 Rs might sound like an outdated approach to academics, reading, writing, and arithmetic are still foundations for learning. Children who are challenged with speech and communication disorders may need extra support to form solid foundations in these subjects. While the diagnosis and therapy treatment plans will vary for children with speech and communication disorders, there are several tools that can help children build stronger skills for their 3 Rs, and benefit communication skills as well. Continue reading

Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – 7 Fun Books that Build Math Skills

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Books that Build Math Skills

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For many kids, math doesn’t conjure up images of exciting, fun, or even worthwhile activities. However, you can help to turn those math humdrums into math smiles with these fun books that build math skills – no math-related frustration required. Continue reading

Language-Based Learning Disability: Games to Improve Language Skills

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A child who is diagnosed with a language-based learning disability can face a variety of challenges, especially in school. There are countless types of therapies used and directions taken by SLPs, in special education classrooms, and by teachers who adjust curriculum to meet these children’s needs. Help keep some of the fun in therapy and learning new skills by trying some of these games and activities.
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Communication Milestones for the Later Elementary Years

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Image Courtesy of mentoringminds.com

Image Courtesy of mentoringminds.com

As the time approaches when many children are headed back to another year of school, many parents are left wondering if their children are ready for what lies ahead. Communication milestones is one term used to describe an intricate weaving of skills and tools that are acquired. These skills include those involving reading, writing, speech, language, use of voice, and more. Communication milestones for children in the older elementary years can be more subtle in nature, but they are nonetheless extremely important.

Communication Milestones in 4th – 6th Grades

Most children have established a foundation of communication by the time they enter kindergarten, and the early elementary years are spent building on those, especially in areas such as reading and writing, as well as more complicated conversations. The older elementary years are no less important than these early years, but their progress might not seem as noticeable. It is during this time when the skills continue to increase at a steady pace, often all the way through high school (and hopefully beyond).

When it comes to communication milestones for older elementary students, look to see that your child is developing in these various areas, both in and out of school. Continue reading

Using E-Readers to Encourage Reading Skills

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Image Courtesy of trendhunter.com

Image Courtesy of trendhunter.com

Literacy is a hot topic in education circles around the globe, and a correlation can even be seen between a nation’s literacy rate and its economic stability. So maybe you agree with the importance of literacy, but how can you actually help your child with communication disorders become a successful reader? E-readers can be an important tool for encouraging these kids who are struggling to develop reading skills. Continue reading