GROWING WITH WORDS

Dyslexia is a neurologically based learning disability that makes it difficult to read, write and spell. Dyslexia occurs in individuals with normal intelligence, but their brains are wired differently than other people. The instructional methods typically used to teach reading and writing don’t work for Dyslexics. Working ‘harder’ doesn’t work for Dyslexics. They require specialized instruction that helps them to learn to read and write in a way that works with their brain’s wiring.

When we think about Thanksgiving, who doesn’t think of the dishes that make our holiday table extra special? Those dishes that we may only serve a few times a year. But if you have a picky eater in your house, Thanksgiving can be stressful for both you and your child. Here are some tips to help engage your picky eater in the meal, ensure they have something they are willing to eat, and maybe try a new food or two.

Today is International Stuttering Awareness Day. Stuttering is a speech disorder that affects more than 70 million people worldwide. And while none of us is 100% fluent all of the time, there are differences between typical dysfluencies and a stuttering disorder.

One of the best things you can do to support your child’s language development is to read books with them. And reading can be so much more than ‘just’ reading. Books expose children to letters, new vocabulary, grammar, and a wide range of language concepts (size, color, quantity, etc). Reading helps children understand and respond to ‘wh’ questions. And how you ‘read’ with your child can significantly impact their language development.

Halloween is one of the most fun days of the year for many children. The excitement of picking their costume, trick-or-treating with family and friends, spooky decorations, and bags full of treats! That said, children with sensory issues can find this a challenging day, and COVID-19 will impact Halloween celebrations this year as it has impacted most other areas of our lives.