Let us know what's up

The mysterious world of speech therapy extends far beyond correcting pronunciation errors. In this eye-opening conversation with Speech Language Pathologist Eliana Rodriguez, we discover the vast "speech umbrella" covering everything from articulation and grammar to social language and alternative communication methods.

Rodriguez reveals how speech therapists serve as crucial "gatekeepers" in child development, often being the first professionals to identify communication challenges in young children. She dispels common misconceptions, particularly the fear that augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices might prevent verbal speech development. Using a brilliant comparison, she explains how children who repeat phrases from videos can similarly learn from communication devices, opening worlds of expression for those who struggle to communicate verbally.

The magic of effective speech therapy lies in meeting children where they are. Rodriguez describes getting down on the floor with nonverbal children, following their interests to build rapport, and creating personalized interventions based on what motivates each child. These child-led approaches transform therapy into engaging play while achieving critical communication goals.

Parents struggling with whether to pursue speech services will find reassurance in Rodriguez's compassionate advice: trust your instincts, seek early intervention, and don't let pride or misconceptions stand in the way of getting help. The collaboration between speech therapists, teachers, and parents creates a powerful support system that can dramatically improve a child's ability to connect with the world.

Have concerns about your child's communication development? May is AAC Awareness Month with devices up to 50% off. Don't wait to explore resources that could transform your child's ability to express themselves and engage with others.

Support the show

Let us know what's up

Ever wondered what it's like to walk in two pairs of shoes simultaneously? Meet Marlee Stevenson - first grade teacher by day, autism mom around the clock. Her journey with her nonverbal son Carson illuminates the powerful intersection of professional expertise and deeply personal experience.

Marlee takes us behind the scenes of a transformation that changed her family's life - the introduction of a communication device for Carson. "We had that same fear," she admits, addressing the common concern that technology might discourage verbal development. Instead, it "opened up so many doors" and dramatically reduced frustration levels. For parents considering this path, she shares a valuable insider tip: April offers significant discounts on communication apps like Proloquo2Go.

The conversation shifts to how parenting a child with autism has profoundly shaped Marlee's teaching approach. Her strategies - having backup plans, reading body language cues, providing clear step-by-step instructions - benefit all students but prove essential for neurodiverse learners. Her beach analogy brilliantly explains why inclusive environments matter: just as you can't truly understand the beach from descriptions alone, students need direct experience with diversity to develop empathy and understanding.

Perhaps most compelling is Marlee's candid discussion of self-care. "I told myself for years that I can't leave him," she reveals. "He was more important." Her journey to recognizing that "it's okay if I walk away" for short breaks offers permission many special needs parents desperately need. Whether it's 20 minutes alone in the backyard or a regular girls' night out, these moments of respite allow parents to return refreshed and better equipped to support their children.

The conversation concludes with practical classroom strategies for fostering acceptance, from children's books that teach inclusion to consistent communication between home and school. These approaches create environments where all students can thrive, regardless of neurological differences.

What might your classroom or home look like if you implemented even one of these strategies? How could clearer communication or intentional inclusion change a child's experience?

Support the show

Let us know what's up

What happens when a grandmother recognizes the signs of autism in her grandchild before anyone else? Robin Curtis, a veteran educator and children's ministry leader, shares her powerful journey of supporting her grandson Xander through his autism diagnosis and development.

The conversation reveals the delicate balance of approaching parents with concerns about their child's development - a moment Robin describes as "one of the hardest conversations I've ever had." Her story illuminates how that difficult conversation sparked a transformative journey for her grandson and entire family.

Robin's professional background working with special needs children gives her unique insight into both sides of the special education equation. She highlights communication breakdowns between parents and teachers as one of the biggest challenges in supporting children effectively. "I don't think you can communicate too much," she emphasizes, noting how collaboration between home and school creates consistency that helps children thrive.

Perhaps most moving is Robin's account of Xander's remarkable progress - from a child who wouldn't eat, make eye contact, or sit still to a young man who now does his own laundry, independently attends youth activities, and engages socially with peers. Her perspective on seeing beyond labels to understand the child's unique viewpoint offers practical wisdom for parents and educators alike.

Throughout the conversation, Robin weaves in her faith perspective, speaking to how understanding God's unconditional love shapes her approach to children with special needs. "Children are so special to Him," she explains, highlighting how this foundation of grace informs her interactions with young people.

Have you noticed concerning behaviors in a child you love? This episode provides compassionate guidance for having those difficult conversations and building the village of support every child needs to reach their full potential.

Support the show