Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – 10 Indoor Games For Kids (that won’t break the furniture!)

by Chris O Games and Activities Parents' Corner

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There are some days when either the weather or the schedule keeps the kids inside for just a bit too long and they start to become antsy balls of pent-up energy. Physical activity is essential for healthy bodies and minds, but can be challenging to accomplish some days. One particularly long winter many years ago I came to a realization – either find ways for the kids to actively play inside or install a room ensconced in bubble wrap. That winter was the year we tried possibly all the indoor games for kids and came up with some favorites – activities the kids can play inside without breaking the furniture! Continue reading →

Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – You Don’t Have to Shout! Nine Tips to Get Kids to Listen More

by Chris O Parents' Corner

Tips to Get Kids to Listen More

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Do you ever feel like the only way to get your children to listen is to continuously raise the volume of your voice? Whether it is competing with the chaotic noise level of the busy house or struggling through a battle of wills with an independent child, getting children to listen is sometimes one of the most challenging experiences we have as parents. As a mother of four children I’ve had to discover tips to get kids to listen more – without raising my own vocal volume in the process. Continue reading →

Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – Games to Improve Listening Skills in Preschoolers

by Chris O Language Development Parents' Corner Technology

 

Improve Listening Skills

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I have never met a parent who claims that his or her young child always listens. A combination of attention span, concentration, and interest all contribute to the energy kids put towards listening – and sometimes it seems like all of these things fly out the window. However, listening skills are not only important for family harmony, but they are integral to communication every day. Help to improve listening skills in your young child by making him or her a Listening Detective – and let the fun begin! Continue reading →

Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – 5 Activities that Encourage Writing Skills

by Chris O Language Development Parents' Corner Reading School

 

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As a writer, putting words on paper or the screen is as natural for me as talking to myself (which I do a lot of, too). However, for countless kids there are hurdles, frustrations, and challenges when it comes being able to write – to say nothing of being able to actually enjoy it. Serving up activities that encourage writing skills in bite-sized portions and not blank loose-leaf paper is one of the first steps to encouraging reluctant writers to become authors in their own rights. Continue reading →

Speech Buddies Parents’ Corner – Spooktacularly Easy Halloween Costumes

by Chris O Parents' Corner
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Growing up there were no trips to the costume store – old school Halloween costumes meant using what you could find in the house to create a unique, fun, and cheap way to disguise yourself for a couple of hours – and I still love this challenge. Halloween is only a few days away, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find an adorable, frightening, or financially feasible costume without investing a ton of time or money – so try some of these spooktacular ideas for both kids and adults. Continue reading →