Everyday Speech Blog
Social Skill Lesson Plans and Articles
Learning Through Technology: Bookshare and Accessible Reading
We all know our students learn in diverse ways. Some are better visual learners, others may be hands on learners, and some are a combination. For students who are auditory learners and learn better when they hear material as opposed to reading it, I suggest using...
Mirroring your iPad on Multiple Screens In the Classroom
A lot of my coworkers are setting goals for themselves this year to use more technology. One of my own goals is to use the technology I have in really fun and engaging ways. Recently, I’ve learned how to project my iPad to a larger screen. This is great for groups...
Free Online Resources for Speech Therapy: Keeping Older Students Engaged With Technology
Working with students in high school isn’t always easy. Most don’t want to be singled out and may feel like coming to speech is for little kids. I try to make an effort to get them to “buy in” even if it’s a tiny bit. One way to do this is to find interesting...
Best Websites to Make Free Study Materials
Key Takeaways Online tools for studying offer convenience and organization. These websites are accessible for students regardless of their technology. Features include making flashcards, study guides, and collaborating with others. Various subjects and standardized...
Quick iPad Tips for Efficient Speech & Language Therapy
As an SLP, it's pretty much a given now that you're working with an iPad. At times, the iPad can be a great tool and opens us up to a world of possibilities. Other times, it can be frustrating to try to figure out what the hundreds of different settings do! Today I'm...
Fresh Ideas for Summer Speech Lessons
For those of you working over the summer, I’ve been brainstorming some fun thematic speech lessons. One of the schools I work in over the summer selects a theme for each classroom, ranging from outer space, countries, to ocean animals, etc. Bouncing ideas off of the...
Using Readily Available Material for Speech and Language Sessions
As SLP’s we’re always on the hunt for new materials to use. Instead of spending time that we probably don’t have searching, I’ve been trying to use my time wisely and take advantage of materials that are ready to go. Local online newspaper sites are the perfect go-to...
Fun Book Series for Speech and Language Development!
This spring I was introduced to an adorable book series by a co-worker. Will Hillenbrand’s Bear and Mole stories are the perfect go-to book for literacy or speech activities. They were written for 4-6 year olds but I use them with older students, ages 7-9, who have...
The Importance of Teaching Social Skills
A huge part of my job as a speech therapist is teaching social skills to children and young adults. People are often surprised at that and ask me why a speech therapist would teach social skills. The biggest reason we work on them is because they are an integral part...
No-Prep Activities
Understanding Others’ Perspectives: A Key Social-Emotional Skill
Introduction Everyone experiences situations differently, and the same event can evoke a range of emotions in different individuals. Developing the ability to see from others' point of view is crucial for building strong relationships and fostering a supportive...
Teaching Body Language Awareness to Elementary Students
In today's world, communication goes beyond just words. Body language plays a significant role in conveying emotions and messages. For children, understanding and interpreting body language can be a crucial skill in building positive relationships and effective...
The Power of Eye Contact: A Skill for PreK Students
Introduction Eye contact is a crucial aspect of communication, especially for young learners. It shows attentiveness, interest, and respect during a conversation. This skill is an essential component of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) and helps in building positive...
Teaching Cyber Skills for Online Messaging to Elementary Students
Introduction As educators, one of our primary goals is to help our students develop healthy communication habits. In today's digital age, this includes teaching them how to communicate safely and effectively online. This blog post will discuss the importance of Cyber...
Teaching Students the Art of Joining a Group Respectfully
Introduction Joining a group of friends or classmates can be a daunting task for elementary students. It is essential for them to learn how to approach and engage with a group respectfully without disrupting ongoing conversations or activities. This skill is an...
Reading the Room: Teaching Students to Adapt in New Situations
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of teaching students in Special Education to read the room, or adapt their behavior according to the social context they find themselves in. This skill is crucial for navigating social situations and fostering positive...
Teaching Active Listening Skills to Kindergarten Students
Introduction Listening is an essential skill that plays a vital role in everyday communication. In the context of social-emotional learning, it is crucial to teach kindergarten students the importance of active listening. By showing interest and attentiveness, they...
Teaching Students How to End Conversations: A Guide for Special Education Educators
Introduction Teaching students how to end conversations is an essential life skill, especially in Special Education settings. Students need to learn the proper way to leave a conversation as it helps them build better relationships and promotes effective...
Wiggle and Jump Break: A Fun PreK Activity for Releasing Energy and Fostering Social-Emotional Learning
Introduction When working with PreK students, it's important to provide opportunities for them to release energy and learn how to self-regulate. This blog post introduces a fun, engaging, and no-prep activity called Wiggle and Jump Break, which helps students release...
Using the Conversation Stoplight to Join Conversations at the Right Time
Introduction One important aspect of social-emotional learning is teaching students how to effectively join conversations. The Conversation Stoplight is a valuable tool that helps students identify the appropriate time to join in. By understanding when it's best to...
Animal Breathing Techniques for Calm and Focus in Special Education
Introduction Teaching students how to manage their emotions and maintain focus is an essential part of their education, especially for those in special education programs. Incorporating Social-Emotional Learning principles into everyday activities can help students...
Teaching Students to Ask for Help and Develop Problem-Solving Skills
Introduction As educators, we understand that students may not always know how to approach a problem or ask for help. By incorporating principles of Social-Emotional Learning, we can teach them to recognize when they need assistance and develop the confidence to seek...
Teaching Direct and Indirect Language Skills to Elementary Students
Introduction Communication is a vital life skill, and teaching students the difference between Direct and Indirect Language can help them navigate social situations more effectively. Direct Language is used when we have a serious problem or need something urgently,...
Teaching Hygiene Skills to Kindergarten Students: A Guide for Educators
Introduction Hygiene is an essential aspect of our daily lives, and it is crucial to teach young children the importance of maintaining good hygiene habits. For kindergarten students, understanding the concept of hygiene and its benefits can significantly impact their...
Teaching PreK Students the Importance of Covering Sneezes for Social-Emotional Growth
Introduction In this blog post, we will explore the importance of teaching PreK students about proper sneezing etiquette and hygiene practices as part of their social-emotional learning journey. By helping young learners understand the significance of covering their...
