Post date: May 8, 2017 3:42:42 PM
Schools almost out for summer break! No more pencils, no more books, No more speaking or language??? Well, that's not exactly how the song goes. And for good reason too! Developing speech skills and developing language is a 24x7x365 affair. I have a job because it is well researched that speech and language skills impact academic success. So give your kids a leg up this summer and give yourself some relief next school year and beyond, Put some thought into how you can incorporate speech sounds/production, listening comprehension, vocabulary development, and oral expression into your activities this summer. See the Ways to Prevent Summer Slide article in this newsletter as a jumping off point. Google search ASHA Parents and select the first link for some more quick suggestions. Finally follow these basics in creating a speech/language rich environment:
Give your undivided attention - This relieves pressure on communicating so they can perform their best. Be interested and engaged.
Listen to understand - Help them be aware of when you don't understand yet
Model the speech and language that you want to see your student developing (emphasize sounds, explain/connect vocabulary, etc.)
Repeat, Rephrase, Restructure - modify the message to increase understanding (add visuals, gestures, and expressions too)
Frontload - Plan ahead for speech/language practice in your activities (e.g. long car ride, play language games like I Spy instead of I Pad)
Celebrate the progress already made - Encourage your student to continue to develop by celebrating their development in the moment
Foster Ownership - Reward them for owning/practicing their speech and language (and all academic) skills. They put in the effort
If you feel that you need the extra support, Contact me for a list of Speech Language Pathologists from the district that are providing summer treatment (organized by region, service location, and specialty). Or hop over to my blog for help with selecting a private therapy service. Have a wonderful summer filled with awesome family activities and enriching speech and language opportunities.