Thursday, September 28, 2017

International Augmentative & Alternative Communication Awareness Month

October is the International AAC Awareness month!

PrAACticialAAC.org has many resources to help raise awareness of AAC and resources for those who have devices. 



This site also has a printable file flip chart called "Everyone Deserves a Voice" AAC Strategies for Success. 

Here is a blurb from the pamphlet: 
Students who use AAC need their communication systems within arms reach at all times. If you can see the student, you should also be able to see their AAC. Its never okay to turn it off or take it away. For students to learn to use AAC, they need to see adults & peers using it, too. Immerse them in an environment that is rich in AAC use throughout the day. Point to the AAC symbols as you speak. Use the AAC devise or app OR make a non-electoronic mock-up. 

We have a laminated version of this flip chart in our lobby at all times. 

However, during this month we will have multiple on the desk for you to take home and share with friends and family! 

Wednesday, September 20, 2017

Screen Time

As technology continues to grow, there is a common concern of language development in young children who spend ample amount of time on tablets. 



A study from the University of Toronto found that every 30 minutes of daily screen usage increases a child's risk of developing speech and language delays by 49% for ages 6 months to 2 years. They specifically found that there were difficulties with expressive language. However, the author cautions that their study does show a direct correlation between device use and language difficulties but there needs to be more research completed in order to signify the correlation. 

So how much screen time should you allow your child to have?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no screen time at all for children younger than 18 months. Children learn language by exposure, and birth to 2 or 3 year range is a time of massive advances in language development. 

Of course, Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) is an exception as it is vital in the development of language for non-verbal users. 

Friday, September 15, 2017

10 Benefits of Building Blocks

Did you know the benefits of development when it comes to building with blocks or legos?



1. Problem Solving 
Problem solving is beneficial in block building as it requires the builder to think about how to make this block structure stand on it's on. Problem solving on how to place the pieces to benefit the structure. 

2. Imagination
Imagination comes into play when the builder decides what to build. Sometimes it is thought of beforehand and sometimes the structure just comes together as they problem solve. They get to follow their own plan or work together as a team to create the structure they envision. 

3. Self-Expression
When children get to express themselves through art no matter if they are drawing, dancing, or building they are expressing their thoughts and in turn themselves. 

4. Mathematics
Carefully calculating the number of blocks on each side or tall is vital in the building process. You must calculate out the blocks in order to create a sturdy structure. 

5. Continuity & Permanence
Building block engages spatial awareness and mobile abilities. It can be in the sense of parallel play or working together as a group. 

6. Creativity 
Along with self-expression, children get to be creative on what they build. They use their imaginations to come up with a concept and problem solve to make it come to life!

7. Science
This activity is an opportunity to test hypotheses and build scientific reasoning through play and imagination. 

8. Self-Esteem
Children discover that they have ideas and that they can bring their ideas to life by creating, transforming, demolishing, and re-creating something unique. 

9. Social and Emotional Growth
Blocks help children learn to take turns and share, develop friendships, become self-reliant, increases attention span, follow directions, and develop confidence in their abilities. 

10. Fine Motor Skills
Using your fingers to manipulate different size and textures of blocks helps in the development of fine motor skills. 



Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Special Olympics 2018

The 2018 USA Games Special Olympics will be held in Seattle! 



The Special Olympics goes from June 30th - July 6th with a special Independence Day celebration!

June 30, 2018 - Welcome Day at SeaTac Airport

July 1, 2018 - Opening Ceremony at Husky Stadium

July 1st - July 5th - Games and Activities 
  • University of Washington - Athletics, Basketball, Bocce, Flag Football, Powerlifting, Tennis, Volleyball
  • Angle Lake - Stand-up Paddle Board
  • Celebration Park - Softball
  • Kenmore Lanes - Bowling
  • Seattle Pacific University - Gymnastics
  • Seattle University - Basketball, Soccer
  • King County Aquatic Center - Swimming
  • Willows Run Golf Club - Golf

July 6th - Closing Ceremony at Lake Union Park