Mathews County Public Schools’ Post

Check out my blog post https://wix.to/gb7di2t #newblogpost #ReadingAloud #StorytellingMagic #ChildDevelopment #BoostLiteracy #EmotionalGrowth #LanguageSkills #CreativeMinds #ParentingTips #EducatorResources #StorytimeJoy

You've probably tried testing your child's hearing at home. Only to find out that even children with profound hearing challenges can perceive some sounds. That's why home testing may not always give you the full picture. 🧐 Watch this video to find out why thorough, professional testing is essential for accurate insights and effective speech development strategies. If you're interested in learning more about hearing tests, give our clinic a call. #hearingtest #childdevelopment #speechdevelopment #parentingtips #speechtherapytips

Dramatic play helps children develop language skills, empathy, and complex social and thinking skills! 🧒🏼💡 It also helps them learn to express themselves, share ideas, and get in touch with their feelings. 💖 Dramatic play usually starts around 2.5–3 years old, and children often start by acting out real-life experiences. ✨ #DramaticPlay #ChildDevelopment #EarlyLearning #PlayBasedLearning #ImaginationPlay #ToddlerActivities #CreativePlay #ChildhoodEducation #LearningThroughPlay #LeighHarterSpeech #LeighHarterSpeechServices

You've probably tried testing your child's hearing at home. Only to find out that even children with profound hearing challenges can perceive some sounds. That's why home testing may not always give you the full picture. 🧐 Watch this video to find out why thorough, professional testing is essential for accurate insights and effective speech development strategies. If you're interested in learning more about hearing tests, give our clinic a call. #hearingtest  #childdevelopment #speechdevelopment #parentingtips #speechtherapytips

Parental Engagement - it's where the magic happens!✨✨✨ Parental engagement is where the true impact on a child’s development takes place. By supporting all parents and carers to engage in their child's education, we can we tackle educational inequality and ensure that every child has the chance to fulfil their potential. But what is Parental Engagement and why is it important? Read our latest blog to find out 🔽 🔽 🔽 https://bit.ly/3ZCmyMS

Have you noticed your child's unique approach to spelling? Understanding these patterns allows us to effectively support our inventive and bright young spellers! . . . #DyslexiaSupport #InclusiveEducation #LiteracyDevelopment #EducationalResources #SpecialEducation #TeacherResources #ParentingInEducation #ChildDevelopment #ProfessionalDevelopment #EducationReform

Our recent survey has brought a critical issue to light: 38% of participants reported a diagnosis of both deafness and autism. This significant overlap raises important questions about the nature of these diagnoses. Are we truly seeing a high prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among deaf children, or could some of these cases be attributed to language deprivation? ASD affects approximately 1.5% of the population and can occur with or without intellectual disability. The diagnostic criteria for ASD require evidence of difficulties in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviours. However, diagnosing ASD in deaf children is particularly complex due to overlapping symptoms with language deprivation. Deaf children without ASD but who experience language deprivation often show social and emotional developmental delays. These can include a lack of awareness or sensitivity towards communicative partners, delays in self-regulation, and difficulties in forming social relationships. Such delays can closely mimic the symptoms of ASD, complicating the diagnostic process. This raises the question: Are these children truly autistic, or are their symptoms a result of inadequate language exposure in their early years? The lack of comprehensive research in this area leaves families and clinicians navigating a challenging landscape with insufficient guidance. The risk of linguistic neglect is a serious concern not only in remote or rural areas but also in metropolitan regions. Many families feel isolated and overwhelmed, unsure of where to seek help and support. At PODC, we have seen firsthand how providing a rich language environment can lead to significant improvements in children. In some cases, these improvements have even led to a re-evaluation of the autism diagnosis, suggesting that the initial symptoms were potentially a result of language deprivation rather than ASD. There is an urgent need for targeted research to better understand the prevalence and characteristics of ASD in deaf children. More comprehensive studies can inform the development of effective support services tailored to the unique needs of these children and their families. With adequate research and resources, we can ensure that families receive the support they need and that children have the opportunity to thrive. Families have shared their experiences of feeling isolated and unsupported. One parent mentioned, "When my child was diagnosed with both deafness and autism, I felt lost. The support system seemed inadequate, and I didn't know where to turn for help." At PODC, we are dedicated to bridging this gap. We strive to advocate for more targeted research and the necessary resources to provide these families with the support they deserve. We can not overlook that 38% of our families have been left without answers. We need to do better.

Language delay in preschoolers can be challenging, but the right strategies can make a huge difference! Swipe through to discover strategies to help your child thrive. For more details, click the link in the comments. #LanguageDelay #EarlyIntervention #SpeechTherapy #ChildDevelopment #TotalCommunication

I know from personal experience with my own daughter that phonological awareness can be the hidden culprit to reading difficulties. It’s so important, even at the preschool level, we are aware of our students’ abilities and can provide intervention and extra practice when needed! Read my latest blog for some of my favorite tips children struggle with phonological awareness. https://lnkd.in/enjB5cdX

This may sound surprising, but prolonged pacifier use can have significant effects on your child's speech development. The pacifier can: 👶🏽distort phonemes; 👶🏽limit articulation; 👶🏽impact communication skills; But don't worry, if you're concerned about your child's speech development, we're here for you! Don't hesitate to reach out to our clinic. Together, we can support your child's journey to confident communication! 🌟 #childdevelopment #pacifier #speechdevelopment #toddlermilestones #parentingtips #speechtherapytips