8 Issues (Other Than ADHD) That Could Be Causing Attention Problems

May 16, 2018 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

attention problemsWhen a child is struggling with attention issues, ADHD is a leading concern. While it is a common cause of focus and attention problems, there are a number of other issues that could be hindering a child's ability to concentrate. Continue reading to learn about 8 often overlooked issues that could be causing attention issues in children.

Fast ForWord Program Is Named a Finalist for Two EdTech Cool Tool Awards

Apr 19, 2018 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

Fast ForWord EdTech Awards 2018For the 2nd year in a row, Fast ForWord was recognized by The EdTech Awards. This year, Fast ForWord was a finalist in the special needs solution category, and it was chosen as a finalist in the language learning solution category. 

Implicit vs. Explicit Instruction: Which is Better for Word Learning?

Jun 28, 2017 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

word learningDo students learn better when instructors clearly outline learning goals (explicit instruction), or when students explore concepts independently (implicit instruction)?

Just the Beginning: How Fast ForWord Helped Monicia's Son with Autism

Apr 18, 2017 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

Monicia autismMeet Monicia, a parent whose vulnerability, strength, and optimism are contagious. No matter what the "experts" tell her, Monicia stays focused on helping her son with autism. After only 5 weeks of using the Fast ForWord intervention, Monicia is amazed. You might be surprised why.

Impaired Auditory Processing in Children from Low-Income Homes

Mar 7, 2017 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

sound-povertyThe "30-million word gap" has received a great deal of well-deserved attention. But, focusing on vocabulary only is missing the point. The problem begins way earlier than previously thought and has serious implications for reversing the seemingly intractable achievement gap.   

10 Ways to Help Your School-Age Child Develop a “Reading Brain”

May 31, 2016 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

reading brainUnlike speaking and listening, reading is not a hard-wired human ability. It needs to be explicitly taught, but its complexities are often taken for granted. This is not so for parents of children who struggle with the process, however.   What can we do as parents to develop proficient readers at home?  And what happens when these things don't work? Read the advice from Dr. Paula Tallal, world-recognized authority on language-learning disabilities. 

Can We Predict Future Literacy Skills in Children?

Feb 23, 2016 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

A new study reveals that we may be able to successfully predict literacy skills in pre-reading children, possibly even in toddlers.  Predicting literacy skillsHow could this information impact children with potential learning difficulties?  How could we help them sooner in their academic careers?

Does Being Bilingual Make You Smarter?

Nov 17, 2015 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

November is Bilingual Education Awareness Month!
Ever wondered what age is best to learn a new language? Or whether bilinguals "think" in both languages simultaneously? Discover how bilingualism improves executive function, what the latest research is on the critical period for language learning, and whether learning a new language raises IQ. 

Can Auditory Training in Babies Impact Speech and Language Development?

May 12, 2015 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

babies and language connectionNew research indicates that babies' brains can be trained to discriminate sounds, which are the building blocks of language. Could this lead to better cognitive and language skills later on in life?

3 Tips For Your Reluctant Reader This Summer

Apr 28, 2015 by Hallie Smith, MA CCC-SLP

Summer is almost here!  What will you do to help your reluctant reader over the next few months?  Take a look at these 3 practical ideas.

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