Friday, December 29, 2017

Little Hats, Big Hearts

The American Heart Association and The Children's Heart Foundations are looking for help from anyone who can kit or crochet to make red hats for babies born in February. 



"Little Hats, Big Hearts" started in February of 2014 and collected 300 hats that first year in Chicago. It has since expanded to 40 states, including Washington! 

The specifics for these hats include red yarn, cotton or acrylic, medium to heavy weight and machine washable/dryable. 

They also are accepting donations of yarn! 

Check out their website to learn more about the specifics and to find free patterns. 

Monday, December 18, 2017

Winter DIY Crafts



Winter DIY Mason Jars

Easy Do-It-Yourself Mason Jars or Candle holders

Supplies you will need: You can find these at any Walmart and Dollar Store
Mason Jar or Candle holder
Glitter (Any type in any color)
Paint brush
Mod Podge 

Project will be messy! 


             

*You can add ribbon, charms, jewels and much more!

Monday, December 11, 2017

Holiday Activities


Check out these budget-friendly holiday activities to do with the family this holiday season!



1. Reindeer Festival in North Seattle - Website 
2. Snow Shows at Pacific Place - Website
3. Gingerbread Village at Seattle Sheraton - Website
4. Christmas Ship at Argosy Cruise Port - Website
5. Winterfest at Seattle Center - Website
6. Garden d'Lights at Bellevue Botanical Gardens - Website
7. Ivar's Clam Lights & Argosy Christmas Ship in Renton - Website
8. Seattle Festival of Trees - Website
9. Snowflake Lane in Bellevue - Website
10. Redmond Town Center - Website
11. WildLights at the Woodland Park Zoo - Website
12. Zoo lights at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium - Website
13. Holiday with Lights at Wild Waves - Website

Monday, December 4, 2017

Facts About Holidays

Facts About Holidays

                                        

 Christmas
  • The poinsettia, a traditional Christmas flower, originally grew in Mexico, where it is also known as the ‘Flower of the Holy Night’. Joel Poinsett first brought it to America in 1829.
  • The first Christmas was celebrated on December 25, AD 336 in Rome.
  • Artificial Christmas trees have outsold real ones since 1991.
                                   

Hanukkah
  • Hanukkah is celebrated around the world for eight days and nights.
  • The word ‘Hanukkah’ means dedication, and honors one of the greatest miracles in Jewish history.
  • In ancient times, oil was used in the menorah. Over time, candles were substituted for the oil.
                                  

Kwanzaa

  • Kwanzaa is not religion based, but cultural celebration of African heritage, Spirits of Nature, and togetherness.
  • Kwanzaa is rooted in African culture, however, people from all racial and ethnic backgrounds are welcomed to join in the celebration. 
  • Kwanzaa is represented by three colors - red, green, and black.


Monday, November 27, 2017

International Day of Person's with Disabilities

December 3rd, 2017 is the international person's with disabilities day. 



This international observance promoted by the United Nations since 1992. This day aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights, and well-being of persons with disabilities.

This years theme is Transformation towards Sustainable and Resilient Society for all. Check out this website for more information.

Monday, November 20, 2017

Thanksgiving Fun Facts

In celebration of thanksgiving this week, here are 5 Thanksgiving fun facts! 


  • Americans eat 46 million turkeys each thanksgiving 
  • The very first Thanksgiving was held in 1621
  • Thanksgiving is the reason for TV Dinners! - There was so much left over turkey someone had the idea to put it in an aluminum tray to heat up later. 
  • Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924
  • There were no forks at the first Thanksgiving! Only spoons and knifes. 

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

American Speech-Language Hearing Association Conference 2017

This past week our office was closed on Thursday and Friday.

The therapists took a trip to Los Angeles, California to attend the yearly ASHA conference.



The ASHA Convention is the strongest educational program for speech-language pathologists, audiologists, speech and hearing scientists, and related professionals.

Make sure to ask your therapist how the conference was!

"This was my first time at ASHA and I had an awesome experience! I am excited to apply everything I learned from the conference into therapy.  It was amazing to be surrounded by thousands of people who share the same passion as me."  
- Adina (SLPA)

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

World Origami Days

October 24th through November 11th is "World Origami Days." 


World Origami days began on October 24th and will last until November 11th.
October 24th is the birthday of Lillian Oppenheimer (1898 - 1992), who founded the first origami group in America. November 11th is Origami Day in Japan where the paper crane has become a symbol of peace. 

Celebrate by creating your own origami creation! 





Monday, October 30, 2017

Dyslexia Awareness Month

Dyslexia Awareness Month


Dyslexia is defined as difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and poor spelling and decoding abilities. Typically, Dyslexia results from a deficit in the phonological component of language. 

Dyslexia Awareness month was first celebrated in 2002. 

You can help raise awareness by using the hashtag #DyslexiaAwarenessMonth on social media! 

Resources:

Monday, October 23, 2017

National Bullying Prevention Month

National Bullying Prevention Month

1 out of every 5 students report being bullied according to PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center. 


October is the National Bullying Prevention Month. October 25th is unity day. Where we raise awareness by wearing and sharing orange. This day was initiated by PACER's National Bullying Prevention Center in October of 2006. It has since grown to an entire month of raising awareness to prevent bullying. 

This year, for every #CleantheMean post on Facebook or Instagram, clarisonic will donate $1 to PACER's National Prevention Center (up to $100,000.) Get involved and help raise awareness by posting using the hashtag #CleantheMean! 

Resources:

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

International Stuttering Awareness Day

International Stuttering Awareness Day

International Stuttering Awareness Day is Oct. 22nd. To help raise awareness and celebrate here are some fun facts and myths about stuttering:
  • Over three million Americans stutter
  • Children who stutter are at a higher risk for bullying
  • Stuttering affects three to four times as many males as females
  • Approximately 5% of all children go through a period of stuttering that last six months or more. 3 quarters will recover by late childhood, leaving 1% with a long term stutter.
  • Studies show that people who stutter are as intelligent and well-adjusted as those who don't. 
  • Nervousness does NOT cause stuttering
  • Famous people who stutter include Emily Blunt, Joe Biden, and Marilyn Monroe
Your response when conversing with a person who stutters is important. It is not an appropriate response to tell them to "think about what you say first" or to "take a deep breath before talking." It is also not favorable to finish their sentences. A more appropriate response would be to listen patiently and treat them as you normally would treat someone in a conversation.  

Our very own speech language pathologist, Tiffani, has written a wonderful article regarding her journey with stuttering and her own fluency disorder. Check it out here

Monday, October 9, 2017

National Down Syndrome Awareness Month

National Down Syndrome Awareness Month


Down Syndrome is a condition where a person is born with an extra chromosome. The physical features and medical problems associated with down syndrome can vary widely from child-to-child. Kids with Down Syndrome tend to share certain physical features such as a flat facial profile, an upward slant to the eyes, small ears, and protruding tongue. Some also may have low muscle tone (called hypotonia), which is also a characteristic.

Today, many kids with down syndrome go to school, hold jobs, and enjoy many of the same activities as other kids their age. They go to college, and transition to semi-independent living as well. 

This month is not about celebrating disabilities, it's about celebrating abilities! Join us in celebrating and raising awareness. 

Resources:
  • http://www.ndss.org/Down-Syndrome/
  • http://downsyndromecommunity.org

Friday, October 6, 2017

Identify the Signs of Communication Disorders

Do you know the common sings of communication disorders? 
Early intervention is always best! Which is why ASHA partnered with Read Aloud 15 MINUTES to create age specific flyers on common signs of communication disorders. 


Here are few common signs of a communication disorder:
  • Struggles to say sounds or words
  • Repetition of words or parts of words
  • Says words in wrong order
  • Struggles with using words and understanding others

Early detection signs are commonly categorized for age specific development. Please use these resources to target your child's specific age range to determine any delays in reaching milestones. 





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



Friday, August 25, 2017

Back to School Transition Tips


Have you begun transitioning from summer time to back to school routines?



It's not to let to prepare for the school year.

Here are few tips on how to ease the transition from summer to school.

1. Get into the routine. Start transitioning by getting your kiddos up earlier and going to bed earlier.
2. Practice. Practice preparing lunches and practice their school time morning routine.
3. Phase out nap time for kindergarteners. If your child is going to all day kindergarten and they don't take nap breaks, you need to start this process prior to the first day of school.
4. Check out the school. Go to the open house or practice the drive to and from school.
5. Have a back-up plan. Make sure your child is aware of what to do if their pick up/drop off slides through.


Also, get your child excited to go back to school by creating a back to school countdown chain. 

Scholastic offers an article regarding tips to get your child school ready and to help you with the transition! 






Wednesday, August 16, 2017

Back to School

It is almost time to go back to school!



Have you adjusted your therapy schedule to accommodate the school schedule? 

Tahoma School District has made changes to the upcoming 2017-2018 school year! Click here to find the new changes and start/end times. 


Let us know if you need to change your appointment time. 
Afternoon time slots are filling up fast!



Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Free Zoo Days!

Did you know the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium offers free admission on select days for seniors (65+) and those with a disability?

Click here to visit the website


Monday, July 31, 2017

Ear Infections in Children

Ear Infections are common in infants and children. In some cases, it can affect hearing and sometimes language development. 



         Two out of three children get at least one middle ear-infection (optitis media) by the age of 3. 1 out of 3 of these children will experience at least 3 infections. 50% of children have at least one ear infection by their first birthday. Unfortunately, the earlier the child gets their first one, the more susceptible they are to recurrent episodes. 

         Recurrent and middle ear fluid infections may experience mild to moderate hearing loss, which can affect the speech/hearing learning process. When fluid builds up in the ear, it can cause temporary hearing loss. 

         Children ages 2 to 4 have shorter, more horizontal eustachian tubes than adults that let bacteria and viruses find their way to the middle ear more easily. A common cold of flu can also lead to ear infections. 

Learn how to detect, treat, and prevent ear infections here!

Friday, July 14, 2017

7 Tips for Talking with Your Child

Most children who stutter benefit from taking time to speak at a rate that promotes fluency. Here are a few tips on how you can help your child's fluency when speaking to them. 



1. Reduce the Pace - Speak with your child in a unhurried way, pausing frequently.

2. Full Listening - Increase the times that you give your child your undivided attention.

3. Asking Questions - Try to resist asking one question after another. Sometimes it's best to just comment on what your child has said and wait. 

4. Turn Taking - Take turns listening and talking. Children find it much easier to speak when there are fewer interruptions.

5. Building Confidence  - Use descriptive praise to build confidence.

6. Special Times - Set aside a few minutes at a regular time each day to give your child your undivided attention

7. Normal Rules Apply

Wednesday, July 5, 2017

9 Summer Learning Activities


Keep the learning going this summer with these fun activities! 



1. Visit a museum - Check out our previous blog here

2. Write in Journals

3. Language Games - Apples to Apples, etc.

4. Read, Read, Read

5. Gardening

6. Scavenger Hunts

7. Family Activity Day Planning - Have your kiddo plan a day out regarding all concepts (Time, Cost, Lunch, etc)

8. Visit the Zoo 

9. Colors Calendar - Click here for the free download




Monday, June 19, 2017

Museums to Visit This Summer!

Going to a museum is a great way to continue education throughout the summer! 

Museums offer a dynamic opportunity to experience new things and explore in a rich educational environment. They are a foundation for creativity, critical thinking, and connection to the world around us. Museums promote imagination and inspire identity building learning experiences for all. 

Here are museums to visit this summer without breaking the bank and even getting in for FREE

Seattle:

Seattle Art Museum Free for children 12 and under. First Thursday of each month, admission is free to the public!

Burke MuseumFree for children 5 and under. First Thursday of each month is free to the public

Henry Art GalleryChildren are free. First Thursday of every month is free to the public. Free admission every Sunday.

Bill and Melinda GatesFoundation -Visitor Center -  Admission is free during their business hours of 10am - 6pm Tuesday through Saturday.

Seattle Children's MuseumChildren under 1 are free. DSHS/Provider One card holders get $1 admission. Sensory Sensitive Saturdays are the first Saturday of every month from 8:30am – 10am, tickets are $3 admission and must be repurchased.

Misc:
Artists at Play PlaygroundFree to the public

Tacoma:

Tacoma Children's MuseumPay-as-you will admission program allows you to pay what you can afford to attend the musem. Tuesdays from 10am – 11:30 are specials needs play days!

Tacoma Art MuseumAdmission is free with Tacoma Children’s museum ticket (from same day.) Children under 5 are free. The third Thursday of every month is free from 5pm to 8pm. Bank of America card holders/employees are free the first weekend of every month.

LeMay - America's CarMuseum - On certain Fridays each month, Lemay offers a free drive in movie at the America's Car Museum Haub Family Field. Watch from your car, chair, or blanket. Friday, August 11th they will be playing Moana!


Bellevue:
Bellevue Arts MuseumFree admission on the first Friday of every month. Children under 6 are free.

KidsQuest Children's Museum - free admission on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Children under 1 are free.

Renton:
Museum of Flight - Children 4 years and under are free. On the first Thursday of every month admission is free to the public from 5pm - 9pm. 

Bremerton:
Bug & Reptile Museum - free to the public.

Bainbridge Island:

KiDiMu - Kids DiscoveryMuseumfree admission the first Thursday of every month. Children under 1 year old are free