Speech and Language Kids Podcast

🎙 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f399.png] SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: SPEECHIE SUMMER CAMP IS HERE! 🏕 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3d5.png] THIS SUMMER, GET ORGANIZED AND HAVE FUN! In this special announcement episode of the Speech and Language Kids Podcast, Carrie Clark shares exciting news about what’s happening this summer inside The Hub. If you’re a school-based SLP, SLPA, or SaLT looking to get your systems in place before the school year chaos returns, this one’s for you! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE You can listen to the full podcast episode below: 🔥 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f525.png] WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: * Why now is the best time to get organized for next school year * What the new Speechie Summer Camp includes (spoiler: it’s full of camp-themed fun and prizes 🎉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f389.png]) * How to participate—even with just a free Hub membership! * What to expect from our new Teams Program launching this fall * Why getting your whole workplace on one therapy system can transform your outcomes and reduce burnout 🎯 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3af.png] HIGHLIGHTS: * Weekly assignments that walk you through The Way, our step-by-step therapy system * Discussion board activities, scavenger hunts, and points-based rewards * Chance to win lifetime memberships and other awesome prizes * Flexible format: complete activities on your own time (no live calls!) * Special invitation to get your whole team covered under a Teams Plan 💼 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4bc.png] NEW! JOIN OUR TEAMS PROGRAM FOR 2025-2026 Is your organization ready to simplify therapy planning and improve outcomes across the board? Our SLK Teams Program is designed for schools, clinics, and teletherapy companies that want every SLP, SLPA, or SaLT on the same powerful system. When your team uses our research-backed framework together, you’ll see: * Better therapy outcomes * Stronger collaboration across colleagues * Less burnout and higher retention * Increased credibility with parents, administrators, and partners ✨ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/2728.png] Bonus: Organizations that join the Teams Program also receive exclusive marketing opportunities and recognition in our SLK-Certified Directory. 📩 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4e9.png] Ready to get your team signed up? Email carrie@speechandlanguagekids.com today to reserve your spot for the 2025–2026 school year! 👉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f449.png] HOW TO JOIN THE SUMMER CAMP: 1. Go to hub.speechandlanguagekids.com [hub.speechandlanguagekids.com] 2. Sign up for a free membership to access the first 3 weeks of camp 3. Check your email and the discussion board on June 9th for your first assignment 🔔 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f514.png] DON’T MISS WHAT’S COMING IN AUGUST: We’re putting a pause on our podcasts and live webinars for the Summer while we run our Summer camp and get ready to launch our Teams Program! We’ll be back with new podcast episodes, live webinars, and a BIG launch of our Teams Program in August—designed to help whole teams of SLPs get better therapy results with less stress. The post Special Announcement! [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/special-announcement/] appeared first on Speech And Language Kids [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com].

GET KIDS LANGUAGE-READY FOR KINDERGARTEN Getting ready for kindergarten doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In this episode, Carrie dives into what it really means to be ‘language-ready’ for the big K and how you can help little ones build those crucial communication skills over the summer—without pressure and with lots of fun. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or SLP, you’ll walk away with practical tips you can start using right away to boost your child’s expressive, receptive, and social language abilities. We also share a fantastic summer resource you won’t want to miss! LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE You can listen to the full podcast episode below: 🎤 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3a4.png]WHAT DOES LANGUAGE-READY REALLY MEAN? Carrie kicks things off by defining what it means for a child to be “language-ready” for kindergarten and reminds us that all kids develop at their own pace. You’ll hear: * An overview of typical language expectations for five-year-old’s * Reassurance for kids who aren’t quite there yet * How to identify key skills to work on this summer 🗣 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f5e3.png] EXPRESSIVE LANGUAGE MILESTONES In this section, we talk about what children should ideally be able to express before starting school, including: * Speaking in 4–6 word sentences * Telling simple stories and sharing past events * Asking and answering basic “wh-” questions * Using a variety of words (nouns, verbs, and descriptors) ➡ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/27a1.png] Helpful Tip: Focus on just one expressive goal each day or week to build skills gradually and naturally 👂 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f442.png] RECEPTIVE LANGUAGE SKILLS TO WATCH FOR Understanding is just as important as speaking! We discuss how to help your child: * Follow 1–2 step directions (and how to give them in a way that builds independence) * Understand basic concepts (big/little, under/over, etc.) * Answer simple questions about stories or daily events * Identify everyday objects by name 📚 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4da.png] BOOSTING PRE-LITERACY & PHONOLOGICAL AWARENESS Reading every day is HUGE—and Carrie gives you more tips to build literacy foundations the SLP way, including: * Playing with sounds: rhyming, syllables, and beginning/ending sounds * Focusing on phonological awareness over letter recognition * Fun games like “guess the word” using syllables and sounds 📌 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4cc.png] Top Tip: Don’t worry about letters—work on hearing and playing with sounds instead. That’s the real reading foundation! 👫 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f46b.png] SOCIAL COMMUNICATION: THE KINDERGARTEN GAME-CHANGER Social skills are a must for kindergarten success! In this part of the episode, Carrie shares how to help your child: * Take turns in conversation and stay on topic * Advocate for themselves and ask for help * Understand and respect personal boundaries * Begin learning how to manage big emotions ➡ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/27a1.png] Pro Tip: Practice “hearing no” and waiting their turn—it’s a big part of life in the classroom. ☀ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/2600.png] TRY OUR VIRTUAL LANGUAGE SUMMER CAMP! Want a structured, low-pressure way to practice these skills all summer long? Check out our Language Catch-Up Camp! It’s perfect for caregivers who want a roadmap: * A virtual summer camp with twice-weekly lessons * Focused on expressive and receptive language, grammar, vocabulary, and more * Designed to build school readiness while having fun 🎉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f389.png] Camp starts June 2nd! 👉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f449.png] Learn more and sign up at: https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com [https://speechandlanguagekids.com/] 💬 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4ac.png] GOT QUESTIONS? WE’RE HERE TO HELP! Join our free community, The Hub, to ask questions, connect with other caregivers and professionals, and get support from Carrie and the team. 🧠 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f9e0.png] Sign up for free: https://hub.speechandlanguagekids.com [https://hub.speechandlanguagekids.com] Let us know what you’re working on with your little one this summer! And remember—language growth happens step-by-step. You’ve got this. 💛 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f49b.png] The post Get Kids Language-Ready for Kindergarten! [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/get-kids-ready-for-kindergarten/] appeared first on Speech And Language Kids [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com].

ANNOUNCING: SUMMER CAMPS AND TEAMS PROGRAM In this short and exciting update episode, Carrie Clark announces two brand new virtual summer camp experiences inside the Speech and Language Kids Hub—one for parents & caregivers, and one for SLPs and related professionals! Plus, get an exclusive sneak peek at the upcoming SLK Teams Program, designed to support speech teams with tools, training, and marketing benefits. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE You can listen to the full podcast episode below: ☀ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/2600.png] VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMPS ARE HERE! Two interactive, themed camps—one for parents and one for professionals: 1. Language Catch-Up Camp (Parents & Caregivers) * 💵 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4b5.png] $75 ticket includes 1 grade level of the Core Language Program ($99 value) * 📆 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4c6.png] Runs June to mid-July * 🧒 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f9d2.png] For kids entering K–6th grade with language challenges * 🎯 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3af.png] Goal: Help your child catch up on essential oral language skills at home this summer * 📬 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4ec.png] Weekly emails with lessons + fun “camp” activities * 🎁 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f381.png] Prizes, badges, and access to a private camp discussion space 2. SLP Summer Camp (SLPs, SLPAs, SALTs, etc.) * 📆 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4c6.png] Launching early July * ✏ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/270f.png] Get organized for the school year with fun activities * 🧠 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f9e0.png] Training on the SLK Framework, therapy planning, data collection, goals, and space/session organization * 🎯 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3af.png] Designed to make next school year smoother and less stressful 💼 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4bc.png] SNEAK PEEK: SLK TEAMS PROGRAM * 🌟 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f31f.png] New offering for organizations with multiple SLPs * 🎯 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3af.png] Streamlined, systemized therapy approach to improve outcomes * 💡 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4a1.png] Includes full Hub membership, Core Language Program, team training, consultation, and SLK-Certified directory listing * 🏢 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3e2.png] Ideal for private practices, school districts, and staffing agencies * ✉ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/2709.png] Interested orgs can contact Carrie at carrie@speechandlanguagekids.com 📌 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4cc.png] QUICK LINKS MENTIONED: * 🔗 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f517.png] Join the Hub: hub.speechandlanguagekids.com [hub.speechandlanguagekids.com] * 🏕 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f3d5.png] Sign Up for Camp: Visit speechandlanguagekids.com [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/] and look for the summer camp banner * 📧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f4e7.png] Email Carrie: carrie@speechandlanguagekids.com JOIN THE CONVERSATION: * Want to attend future live podcast recordings or join the discussion board? It’s free to sign up! * Already a member? Log in to access the summer camp registration page inside the Hub. The post Announcing: Summer Camps and Teams Program [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/summer-camps-teams-program/] appeared first on Speech And Language Kids [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com].

HOW TO DO SPEECH THERAPY AT HOME Do you want to help your child improve their communication skills at home but aren’t sure where to start? Whether you’re on a waiting list for services or just want to boost your child’s progress between sessions, this episode is for you. Carrie Clark, SLP and founder of Speech and Language Kids, breaks down exactly how to do speech therapy at home without feeling overwhelmed. She walks you through how to figure out what to work on, how to break it down into bite-sized steps, and how to sneak practice into your daily routine (even with a busy schedule). This episode was recorded live inside the SLK Hub, and you’ll hear about how the tools and resources inside the Hub can make this whole process even easier. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE You can listen to the full podcast episode below: STEP ONE: FIGURE OUT WHAT TO WORK ON If you’re not sure where to begin, Carrie shares a simple framework to help you narrow down your child’s communication challenges. She explains the six main areas of communication: * Speech Sounds * Language * Social Communication * Fluency * Voice/Resonance * Functional Communication Not sure which one fits? Grab the free screening checklist included in the free Hub membership to help you pinpoint where your child needs support: 👉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f449.png] hub.speechandlanguagekids.com [hub.speechandlanguagekids.com] PICK ONE SKILL TO FOCUS ON Once you’ve identified the general area, it’s time to zoom in on a single skill. Carrie explains how to pick a specific, meaningful skill that will have a big impact—like answering “where” questions or producing the R sound. You’ll hear why it’s important to: * Choose just one skill to avoid overwhelm * Start with the easiest version of the skill * Work your way up gradually HOW TO TEACH A NEW SKILL (WITHOUT OVERWHELM) Carrie explains how to make practice feel easy and doable: * Find the version of the skill your child can do * Practice that first * Then baby step your way up from there She also explains how to apply this to both speech and language goals, using real-life examples like: * Teaching “where” questions starting with “Where’s your nose?” * Teaching R by starting with just the “er” sound Inside the full SLK Hub membership, therapy plans are laid out step-by-step for each skill, but Carrie shows how to do this process on your own, too. 5 MINUTES A DAY IS ENOUGH You don’t need hours of therapy time. Carrie recommends: * Doing just 5 minutes of focused practice per day * Setting a timer to keep it short and motivating * Reinforcing the skill in little moments throughout your day (like in the car or during play) And yes, it’s okay if it doesn’t go perfectly! Carrie reminds us that working with your own child is way harder than working with anyone else’s. Do what you can, when you can—and take breaks when needed. VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMPS FOR PARENTS (STARTING JUNE 2, 2025) Want more structure, support, and fun this summer? Join us for the Virtual Summer Camp for Parents inside the SLK Hub! Here’s what you’ll get: * A 6-week plan to help your child boost language skills at home * Two lessons a week from our Core Language Program (included in your ticket) * Activities for kids entering Kindergarten through 6th grade * Guidance, accountability, and a fun camp theme to keep things moving Whether your child needs to catch up or get a head start on next year, this is your chance to make summer count! Stay tuned—registration opens soon at: 👉 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/15.1.0/72x72/1f449.png] www.speechandlanguagekids.com [www.speechandlanguagekids.com] RESOURCES MENTIONED * Free Hub Membership + Screening Checklist [https://hub.speechandlanguagekids.com/] * Full Therapy Plans inside the SLK Hub [https://hub.speechandlanguagekids.com/] * Virtual Summer Camp Info [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/] (coming soon) Got questions or want support on what to work on at home? Join us in the Hub and post in the discussion board—we’re here to help! The post How to Do Speech Therapy at Home [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/speech-therapy-at-home/] appeared first on Speech And Language Kids [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com].

TEACHING CHILDREN TO FOLLOW DIRECTIONS Does your child (or student) struggle to follow directions? You’re not alone! In this episode of the Speech and Language Kids Podcast, Carrie Clark, SLP and founder of SpeechAndLanguageKids.com, walks you through how to teach children to follow directions—step-by-step. Whether you’re working with toddlers just starting to understand basic commands or older kids struggling with multi-step instructions, this episode has got you covered. You’ll learn practical strategies for teaching one-step, two-step, and even complex multi-step directions, plus how to support kids using play, visuals, repetition, and more. We’ll also dig into why following directions is hard for many children (even those without speech or language delays!) and what you can do to help them succeed. LISTEN TO THE PODCAST HERE You can listen to the full podcast episode below: WHY FOLLOWING DIRECTIONS IS HARD FOR KIDS Following directions requires listening, understanding, memory, attention, and execution—sometimes all at once! Carrie explains why even neurotypical kids can struggle and how communication delays, ADHD, or autism can make this even more challenging. BEGINNER LEVEL: TEACHING ONE-STEP DIRECTIONS Start here with your toddlers and early learners! Carrie explains how to teach: * Routine directions (like “put your shoes on”) * Novel directions (like “touch your nose”) * How to use play-based therapy, visual cues, gestures, and prompt fading * Why giving clear, concrete instructions is critical (no more “take a seat”—say “sit down”!) MOVING TO TWO-STEP DIRECTIONS AND SPATIAL CONCEPTS Once kids are getting the hang of simple directions, it’s time to build up! Learn how to teach: * Two-step routine and novel directions * Directions using spatial concepts like “on,” “under,” “next to,” and “in” * How to embed these skills into daily routines or classroom settings INTERMEDIATE LEVEL: MULTI-STEP AND TEMPORAL DIRECTIONS Now we’re stepping it up with: * 3- and 4-step directions * Temporal concepts like “before” and “after” * Tips for older preschoolers and elementary-aged kids who need extra support due to memory, attention, or processing challenges ADVANCED LEVEL: REAL-LIFE, REAL-WORLD DIRECTIONS This is where the rubber meets the road. Carrie covers how to help students follow complex directions in: * Academic settings (like classroom tasks or worksheets) * Daily life (like routines at home) * Noisy, distracting environments RESOURCES AND TOOLS MENTIONED * Therapy Pathways and Therapy Plans – Step-by-step guidance on teaching following directions at all levels. Available in the Speech and Language Kids Hub [https://hub.speechandlanguagekids.com/] * Session Builder Tools (AI-Powered Prompts) – Generate custom one-step, two-step, or three-step directions on any topic. * Discussion Boards in the Hub – Ask questions, share challenges, and get feedback from the SLP community. Available on all membership levels. * Search the Hub for “Following Directions” to find therapy kits, materials, and more. WANT TO JOIN THE NEXT LIVE PODCAST? This episode was recorded live inside the Speech and Language Kids Hub. Join us in the Hub to attend future live episodes and ask your questions in real-time! Learn more and join by clicking here [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/join-the-hub/]. The post Teaching Children to Follow Directions [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com/teaching-children-to-follow-directions/] appeared first on Speech And Language Kids [https://www.speechandlanguagekids.com].