Managing Stress in the New Year

It's a new year and already I am falling victim to my desire to learn. The problem is our field is so varied that it is hard to keep up with new information. Currently, I am trying to finish an online course in technology (hence how this blog got started), trying to learn more about IApps for one of my AAC users, get another new AAC device up and running, and still stay on top of IEP's (individualized education plan). Along with trying to make this blog somewhat interesting to read to other professionals or parents. Oh, then comes the Auditory Processing and Executive function information I am trying to gather to improve my therapy skills with those students. It never ends.... Well sounds like it is time for some lists, to prioritize. Always a good strategy to put it in writing with deadlines to help the mountain become a mole hill. One thing at a time, is the only way to control the stress and keep from feeling overwhelmed. The creation of a list with either deadlines, priorities, or just pros and cons can help in many areas of life. Whenever you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed put it on paper and in order.
Just a little something to help us organize and focus for the New Year.

Thought for the Holiday

I am a firm believer that communication happens everywhere. This up coming holiday is the perfect time to practice some skills with people that know your child but are not that familiar with them.

-social skills: greeting and holding a conversation with someone they haven't seen in awhile.
-articulation: can an unfamiliar listener understand them and are they carrying over their sound/s outside of a familiar environment.
-stuttering: using strategies during a family gathering or on the phone.
-language: requesting presents or food using a phrase or complete thought.

Just a few ideas to help you to use this time to gauge where your child's skills are, where they may be some work needed, and a chance to carry over skills to another environment.

May you have a happy and health New Year!

Just getting started

As with any learning it takes a little time to get started. So if you are coming across this new blog, hang in there I will have it up and running fully during the school break for the holidays. I look forward to your feedback and I hope to be able to provide new and helpful information in the area of speech language pathology