Singing without a Stutter: Music as a Speech Therapy Tool

by Holly F. Speech Disorders Speech Therapy Techniques
The symptoms of stuttering

Source: ihavesvoice.info

We all know the brain works in mysterious ways, but every so often we are reminded of just how magical it is. This is particularly so when we examine it’s response to music in populations with Language disorders as a speech therapy technique. By now, you may have seen this video of American Idol contestant Lazaro Arbos’ audition. While his rendition of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” is astounding enough, watch what happens to his rather severe stutter when he begins to sing:

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Supporting the Science of Speech: 10 Ways to Involve Your Child in Research

by Holly F. News
Child participating in Speech Science Research

Image Source: www.uncnri.org

How do children learn new words?

What is the risk of a sibling developing Autism?

If you follow the news headlines you likely already know that developmental research- the science of how children learn and change overtime- is booming. In addition, the causes and implications of developmental disabilities- why some children develop disorders and some do not – is even more dynamic.  If you have ever considered involving your child in research, now is the time.  Participating in research can be a fun and exciting experience for children of all ages and takes place all over the country. Clinical practices and methods in speech pathology rely heavily on research into how the normal brain and disordered brain works. Child scientists are vital to our communities and can help shed light onto the most pressing developmental issues and help improve speech therapy techniques.

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Study: A Good Night’s Sleep Could Lead to a Good Day’s Speech

by Jacky G. Speech Therapy Techniques
Sleep and language memory

Image source: Schools.com

Research out of the University of York and Sheffield Hallam University has shown that a good night’s sleep can help children develop their vocabularies better and retain new words more efficiently. The British study found that when children age seven and up (as well as adults) slept within 12 hours of learning new words, they were more likely to retain the vocabulary. This could change how we present speech therapy techniques for better retention! Continue reading →

Fun In Atlanta – A New Great Place for Special Needs Families to Play

by Jacky G. State Resources
Special needs play center

Image source: TaylorBugKisses.com

If you live in Atlanta or its bustling metro area and have a special needs child, you’ll be happy to know there is a great new place for you to get out and play with your child in an environment that’s safe, fun and stimulating. Often traditional amusements can be overwhelming, noisy and crowded with people who may not understand how your child wants and needs to interact with their environment. This can be frustrating for you and upsetting for your special needs child. But the great news is, this fun new place in Atlanta’s outskirts is specially made for families just like yours – Sensations TheraFun. This is a place special needs kids can play and thrive and special needs parents can relax and enjoy.

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Parent Warning: Developmental Delays Linked to Flame Retardants

by Jacky G. News
PBDE cause developmental disorders

Image source: AlaskaConservationBlog.com

Wow! This is one piece of scary news. A study published in November in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives has linked prenatal and childhood exposure to flame retardant chemicals to certain neuro developmental delays. Yikes! I thought flame retardant products were supposed to keep our children safe, not harm them… The study research was done at University of California’s Berkeley School of Public Health, so I tend to take their findings seriously. Continue reading →