You don’t need worksheets, apps, or a perfect routine to nurture your child’s communication. The best language-building happens in ordinary moments (think snack time, the car, the bath) through warm, unhurried connection. Here are ten neuro-affirming ways to help, all built on following your child rather than pushing them.
One big thing first: the goal is connection, not compliance. We’re not trying to get your child to perform words on demand or make eye contact they find uncomfortable. We’re making it easier and more joyful for them to share what’s already inside.
Follow their lead.
Talk about whatever your child is already interested in. Interest is the engine of learning, and joining their focus beats redirecting it.
Narrate the day.
Put simple words to what’s happening: “Warm water. Splash!” Your child absorbs far more than they hand back.
Add one word.
When they say “dog,” you say “big dog” or “dog run.” Gently model the next step instead of correcting.
Honor every message.
Point, sign, sound, a look, a device: all of it is communication. Respond to it as real, and your child learns that communicating works.
Pause and wait.
Ask, then give a slow count of five. Silence isn’t empty, it’s the space your child needs to take a turn.
Get face to face.
Come down to their level so you can see and share what delights them. Presence matters more than eye contact.
Offer choices.
“Apple or banana?” gives your child real power to communicate, and a reason to.
Sing and repeat.
Songs, rhymes, and favorite lines are predictable and fun, which makes them easy to join in on.
Read together your way.
No need to finish the book or read every word. Name pictures, follow their pointing, let them turn pages.
Protect the joy.
Skip drills and demands. A child who feels safe and enjoyed communicates more than one who feels tested.
What to skip
You can let go of pressure tactics, like withholding a toy until they “say the word,” correcting pronunciation, or making your child repeat things to perform for others. These tend to raise stress and lower the very communication we’re hoping for. Warmth works better than pressure, every time.
Small moments, repeated with love, add up. You’re already your child’s favorite person to talk to, and that’s the most powerful tool there is.
Have questions about your child’s communication? Reach out for a warm, no-pressure conversation, we meet every child exactly where they are.
This article is for general information and isn’t a substitute for individualized guidance from a licensed speech-language pathologist who knows your child.
SHOLEH SHAHINFAR
M.A. CCC-SLP, RYT
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
Waiting for your child’s first words can be an anxious experience. When those milestones seem delayed, it is entirely natural for parents to feel concerned. You might find yourself comparing your child to peers or frantically searching the internet for answers.
Language development is not a straight line. Children acquire speech in different ways, and understanding how your child learns is the first step in helping them communicate. Two common paths you might encounter are “late talkers” and “gestalt language processors.”
While both might present as a speech delay initially, the underlying way these children process and learn language is entirely different. By recognizing your child’s unique communication style, you can tailor your approach to best support their development, reduce frustration, and foster a connected, regulating environment.
A “late talker” is typically a toddler between 18 and 30 months old who has good understanding of language and typical development in other areas (like motor and social skills) but has a limited spoken vocabulary.
Most late talkers are “analytic language processors.” This means they learn language from the bottom up. They start with single words, combine those into two-word phrases, and eventually build full sentences. They simply start this process a little later than their peers.
Characteristics of a Late Talker
Strong receptive language
They understand what you are saying, can follow simple directions, and point to objects when named.
Use of non-verbal communication
They frequently use gestures, pointing, and facial expressions to get their needs met.
Single-word focus
When they do speak, they use single words rather than word combinations and sentences.
Typical play skills
They engage in appropriate pretend play and interact socially.
What is a Gestalt Language Processor?
Gestalt language processing is an entirely different way of learning language. Instead of starting with single words, gestalt language processors (GLPs) learn language in “chunks” or whole phrases.
To a GLP, a phrase like “Let’s go to the park” is processed as one single unit of meaning, much like a single word. They often use intonation and melody to communicate before they use understandable words. Over time, they break these large chunks down into smaller parts and eventually isolate single words to create their own unique sentences.
Signs of a Gestalt Language Processor
Echolalia: They frequently repeat phrases they hear from parents, TV shows, or songs. This is their way of communicating a feeling or need.
Musical intonation: Their babbling sounds incredibly conversational, often mimicking the exact rhythm and pitch of adult speech without clear articulation.
Delayed single words: They might struggle to label single objects or answer simple “what is that?” questions.
Situational learning: They associate specific phrases with the emotional context in which they first heard them. For example, they might say “To infinity and beyond!” every time they feel excited.
Key Differences: Analytic vs. Gestalt Language Development
Understanding the core difference between these two styles comes down to the building blocks of language.
Analytic language processors are building a house brick by brick. They start with the foundation (single words), add walls (two-word phrases), and finally put on the roof (complex sentences).
Gestalt language processors start with the whole house already built. They absorb complete phrases and scripts. Their developmental journey involves taking that house apart to understand the individual bricks, so they can eventually build a new house of their own design.
If you try to teach a gestalt language processor using analytic methods, like asking them to repeat flashcards of single words, they will often become frustrated and dysregulated. Their brains simply do not process language that way.
How to Support Your Child Based on Their Learning Style
Once you identify how your child learns, you can adapt your home environment to support them effectively.
Supporting a Late Talker
Follow their lead: Play with what they want to play with. When your child is interested, they are more likely to communicate.
Model single words: Use simple, clear language. If they are playing with a car, say “Car! Go car.”
Remove the pressure: Avoid demanding that they “say” a word. Instead, pause and give them the opportunity to speak. If they do not, fill in the word for them without showing disappointment.
Praise all communication: Celebrate gestures, eye contact, and vocalizations.
Acknowledge their scripts: When your child repeats a script, smile, nod, and repeat it back to them. Validate that they are communicating.
Follow their lead: Play with what they want to play with. When your child is interested, they are more likely to communicate.
Be a detective: Try to figure out the emotional meaning behind their scripts. If they quote a cartoon character who is hungry every time it’s time for lunch, they are telling you they want to eat.
Model mitigable gestalts: Instead of focusing on single words, model useful, everyday phrases from a first-person perspective. Use phrases like “I need help,” “Let’s go,” or “I like that.”
Embrace the music: Sing songs and use exaggerated, melodic intonation when you speak with them.
Navigating a child’s speech and language journey can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with regulation challenges or overlapping diagnoses like Childhood Apraxia of Speech (check out the ebook and activity guide). Please remember that both analytic and gestalt language processing are completely valid, natural ways to develop human language.
By observing your child closely and adjusting your communication style to match theirs, you can build a strong foundation of trust and connection.
Every child’s path to communication is unique, and understanding whether your child is a late talker or a gestalt language processor is the first step in supporting them with empathy and intention. By recognizing their individual strengths and using strategies that align with their language learning style, you foster both confidence and meaningful connection.
Remember to observe your child closely, celebrate all forms of communication, and adapt your approach as they grow and change. You are your child’s greatest advocate and partner on this journey.
If you’d like to dive deeper or need step-by-step guidance, feel free to book a complimentary consultation with me. Together, we can help your child’s voice shine in their own time and way!
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
As a Speech-Language Pathologist, I hear a familiar question from parents almost every single week. They want to know why their child struggles to pronounce words like “rabbit,” “car,” or “red.” Instead of a crisp /r/, the sound often comes out sounding like a /w/ or a vowel.
If you find yourself navigating this exact journey with your child or student, you are definitely not alone! The /r/ sound is notoriously one of the last and most difficult speech sounds for children to acquire. It causes headaches for kids, parents, and even seasoned therapists. It often requires months of dedicated, strategic practice to master.
Understanding why this specific sound causes so much trouble is the very first step toward helping a child succeed. In this blog, we will explore why the /r/ sound is so elusive, break down the complex motor coordination required to produce it, and share practical insights on how to support your child’s speech development effectively.
Most speech sounds give us easy, obvious visual clues. When a child learns to say /b/, /p/, or /m/, they can look in a mirror and watch their lips press together. They can easily copy what a therapist, teacher, or parent is doing right in front of them. The visual feedback makes the learning process straightforward and intuitive.
The /r/ sound is entirely different and can be almost invisible, making it even more to difficult to describe!
The Invisible /r/ & Motor Coordination
Because the /r/ sound is produced entirely inside the mouth, it remains practically invisible to the naked eye. A child cannot simply look at an adult’s face to understand where their tongue should go. They only see the lips slightly apart, which gives them absolutely no information about what the tongue, jaw, or vocal cords are doing behind the scenes. Without that visual roadmap, children often guess where to place their tongue, leading to the common “wabbit” substitution.
Beyond being invisible, the /r/ soundrequires an incredibly high level of complex motor coordination. Producing a clear /r/ demands that different parts of the tongue do different things at the exact same time. The back of the tongue must widen and elevate to touch the back teeth, while the root of the tongue retracts. Meanwhile, the vocal cords vibrate, and the lips maintain a neutral or slightly rounded position.
Asking a young child to coordinate all these microscopic muscle movements simultaneously is like asking them to pat their head, rub their belly, and hop on one foot while reciting the alphabet. It takes immense precision, strong muscle memory, and significant practice to get it right consistently.
Different Ways to Produce the /r/ Sound
To make matters even more complicated, there is no single “correct” way to shape the tongue for the /r/ sound. Speech-language pathologists generally recognize two primary methods for producing a clear, accurate /r/. Finding out which method works best for an individual child involves trial, error, and expert guidance.
The Bunched /r/ Method
The bunched /r/ is the most common way native English speakers produce the sound. In this position, the tongue pulls back and bunches up like a mountain in the middle of the mouth. The sides of the tongue elevate to press firmly against the insides of the upper back teeth. The tongue tip drops down and points toward the bottom of the mouth. This creates tension in the back of the mouth, which helps produce the resonant /r/ quality we expect to hear.
The Retroflex /r/ Method
The retroflex /r/ is a different way to produce the /r/ sound. For a retroflex /r/, the tongue tip curls up and points backward toward the roof of the mouth, just behind the alveolar ridge (the bumpy part behind the upper front teeth). The back of the tongue still needs to widen to stabilize against the back molars. Some children find this curled position easier to visualize and physically achieve.
Relying on the Wait and See Approach
A major misconception surrounding the /r/ sound is that a child will simply “grow out of it” if given enough time. While some children do eventually correct their pronunciation independently, many require targeted, professional intervention.
Waiting too long can actually allow the incorrect tongue placement to become a deeply ingrained habit. When a child spends years saying /w/ instead of /r/, their brain strengthens that specific neural pathway. Breaking a habit that has been practiced thousands of times over several years makes therapy much harder down the road. Early intervention and targeted strategies always yield the best results.
Another frequent hurdle is relying on the wrong cues. Telling a child to “just try harder” or “say it like this” rarely works. Because they cannot see the correct tongue position, simply repeating the word louder or slower will only frustrate them. They need specialized auditory, tactile, and visual cues to guide their mouth into the right posture. If they do not know how to physically move their tongue into the right spot, no amount of repeating the word “run” will magically fix the error.
Proven Strategies for Eliciting the /r/ Sound
Success in articulation therapy heavily relies on having the right tools. As an SLP, I have seen firsthand how a slight adjustment in teaching methods can lead to a massive breakthrough. You need a structured approach that breaks the sound down into manageable, bite-sized steps.
Before a child can produce the sound, they must be able to hear it accurately. Auditory discrimination involves training the child’s ears to hear the distinct difference between their incorrect production (like “wake”) and the correct target word (“rake”). SLPs often use listening games where the child acts as the “teacher,” giving a thumbs up or thumbs down when they hear the adult model the sound correctly or incorrectly.
SLPs use tools like tongue depressors, lollipops, or even dental flossers to provide tactile cues. Touching the sides of the child’s tongue and then touching their upper back molars gives them a physical sensation to match. We also use hand gestures to mimic the shape of the tongue, helping the child visualize what needs to happen internally.
Once a child successfully produces the /r/ sound by itself, the journey continues. We must systematically train the brain to use that new motor pattern in connected speech.
Making Practice Fun and Engaging
Therapy progresses through a specific hierarchy. We start with the sound in isolation, move to syllables, progress to simple words, advance to short phrases, and finally tackle full sentences and conversational speech. Children need engaging, repetitive practice that doesn’t feel like a chore. Incorporating board games, silly challenges, and high-interest reading materials keeps their motivation high while they build their new muscle memory.
Mastering this sound does not have to be a stressful, exhausting guessing game. If you want a clear, step-by-step approach to achieving perfect pronunciation, you need strategies tested and proven in the clinic.
You need a comprehensive roadmap that breaks down exactly how to elicit the sound, which cues work best, and how to practice effectively at home. That is exactly why I put together a comprehensive resource tailored specifically for this exact challenge.
If you are ready to stop feeling stuck and want to help your child or student finally achieve that confident, clear /r/ sound, you need the right tools in your hands.
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
Speech and language therapy plays a pivotal role in supporting children with speech delays or disorders to improve their communication skills and reach their full potential. As a parent, understanding how to navigate the world of speech and language therapy can significantly impact your child’s progress and development. In this blog, we’ll explore key strategies and insights to help you maximize the benefits of speech therapy for your child.
Maintain open communication with your child’s SLP to understand their goals, progress, and recommended strategies. Regular discussions can help align efforts between therapy sessions and home practice.
2. Consistent Home Practice:
Implementing exercises and intervention strategies/activities recommended by the SLP into your daily routine can reinforce learning and promote skill retention. Consistency is key to making progress.
3. Encourage and Reinforce:
Offer positive reinforcement and encouragement to motivate your child during therapy exercises and at-home practice. Celebrate small victories and progress to boost confidence and engagement.
4. Create a Language-Rich Environment:
Foster a supportive environment at home that encourages communication and language development. Incorporate play, narrating daily routines, and conversations to enhance your child’s skills outside of therapy sessions.
5. Track Progress and Set Goals:
Work with your SLP to establish clear goals and milestones for your child’s speech therapy journey. Regularly track progress, celebrate achievements, and reassess goals to ensure continuous improvement.
Do you feel like your child is speech, language and/or motor skills are regressing?
You will find out if your child is on track or if you may need some support.
The Role of Parents in Speech Therapy
As a parent, your involvement in your child’s speech therapy journey is invaluable. By actively participating, advocating, and supporting your child both during therapy sessions and at home, you can make a profound difference in their progress. Remember, every child progresses at their own pace, and with dedication and support, your child can achieve meaningful improvements in their communication skills.
Navigating speech therapy can be a rewarding and empowering experience for both you and your child. By following these guidelines and working collaboratively with your child’s SLP, you can maximize the benefits of speech therapy and help your child thrive in their communication journey. Together, you can unlock your child’s full potential and lay the foundation for successful communication skills that will benefit them for years to come.
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
KAELYN GREEN
Kaelyn Green is a licensed occupational therapist at Valued Voices. She is certified by the University of Southern California in Sensory Integration and is an advocate for addressing underlying sensory functioning in order to improve occupational performance. She is passionate about meeting children and families where they are at and seeks to tailor interventions to the unique needs of her clients. When she is not working, you will find Kaelyn taking care of her two goldendoodles, working in her garden, or taking trips to the Central Coast.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
Toys are not just objects of play; they are powerful tools that hold the key to unlocking a world of possibilities, especially when it comes to speech and language development in children.
You may have recently been at a toy store or Target and when you went into the toy aisle, you were bombarded with lights, sounds, colors, buttons, music and oh so many screens! When you purchase these types of toys, the toys are doing all the work! This means, your child is not really using or building on any of their skills. Children learn by doing, and with these toys, often instead of them doing (and learning), the toy is doing!
There are two things I almost always tell parents: keep it simple and less is more. The simpler the toy, the more skills you can work on. However, it is always important to go with your child’s interests, so if your child likes the loud toys, don’t shy away from getting them, but always try to mix in some more simple toys into your child’s toy collection to support the development of early language and play skills. Also, you don’t need a closet full of toys to have fun, you can use one toy to target so many things, all while connecting with your kiddo, keeping their attention and having tons of fun!
In this blog, we delve into the incredible journey toys and using a single toy to encourage and enhance speech and language skills in young ones.
The Magic of Interactive Play
At the heart of speech and language development lies the foundation of interactive play. A simple yet versatile toy, such as building blocks, cars, ball drops. shape sorters and even books, can work wonders in engaging children in meaningful interactions. Through play, children learn to communicate, express themselves, and comprehend language in a natural, enjoyable way.
Choosing the Right Toy
When selecting a toy to aid speech and language development, consider its versatility and adaptability. A toy like a set of animal figurines or a dollhouse not only sparks imagination but also offers endless opportunities for vocabulary expansion, storytelling, and social interaction – all essential components of language growth.
LEGOS & BLOCKS
An oldie but goodie! Because they can be used in so many different ways, Legos are one of the best toys for development. Children can play independently or interact with others. Great for vocabulary, language skills, articulation, and building fine motor and spatial awareness skills.
MR. POTATO HEAD
This toy provides so many benefits, including encouraging language development (naming body parts and labeling colors) fine and gross motor skills (grasping), visual scanning (looking for a part), naming body parts, spatial awareness, matching objects, and labeling colors, just to name a few! At Valued Voices, we have a variety of sizes of Potato Heads, which provides great opportunities during peer play too!
BOOKS
Reading at an early age is so important for your little one. Children can build their literacy skills, which will directly correlate to language development and later success. Wordless picture books, simple books with short phrases and sentences, and books with repetitions are my favorite. You can find out more about the importance of reading with your kiddos here.
CAUSE-EFFECT TOYS
Cause and effect toys offer more than just entertainment; they provide valuable developmental benefits for children. By engaging with these toys, kids learn about the relationship between actions and outcomes, enhancing their cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, cause and effect toys promote sensory exploration, fine motor skills, and foster creativity. Investing in these toys not only sparks curiosity but also lays a strong foundation for learning and development in early childhood. Check out my favorite car ramp, piggy bank, and more. I also have some of my favorite toys listed by age here.
Playful Language Learning Activities
Here are some fun and creative ways to harness the power of a single toy for speech and language enrichment:
1. Labeling and Describing:
Prompt children to label and describe different parts of the toy or describe its features, building vocabulary and language comprehension.
2. Pretend Play & Storytelling Sessions:
Encourage children to narrate stories using the toy characters or props, fostering creativity and narrative skills.
3. Role-Playing Scenarios:
Engage in role-playing activities with the toy to stimulate conversation, practice social skills, and enhance communication abilities.
The Impact Beyond Words
Speech and language development go beyond words – they form the cornerstone of cognitive, social, and emotional growth. By incorporating a thoughtfully chosen toy into a child’s play routine, you’re not just fostering language skills; you’re nurturing their overall development and setting a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
The power of a single toy in encouraging speech and language development is immeasurable. We don’t need always need more; we just need the right way to unlock your child’s strengths! Through toys, children can embark on a journey of self-expression, communication, and connection. So, grab that toy, ignite the magic of play, and watch as language blossoms in the hands of little ones.
Remember, in the world of toys, every play moment is a language moment waiting to happen. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small, to boost confidence and motivation in your child’s journey of self-expression!
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
KAELYN GREEN
Kaelyn Green is a licensed occupational therapist at Valued Voices. She is certified by the University of Southern California in Sensory Integration and is an advocate for addressing underlying sensory functioning in order to improve occupational performance. She is passionate about meeting children and families where they are at and seeks to tailor interventions to the unique needs of her clients. When she is not working, you will find Kaelyn taking care of her two goldendoodles, working in her garden, or taking trips to the Central Coast.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
Welcome to our blog, where we focus on providing valuable information and resources for parents and caregivers of young children. Today, we want to explore the topic of early intervention speech and language development.
As a parent or caregiver, you want your child to have every opportunity to thrive and succeed in life. One crucial aspect of a child’s development is their speech and language skills. It may seem like your child is just babbling or saying a few words now, but those early communication skills are the foundation for later academic and social success.
That’s why early intervention in speech and language development is so important. It refers to identifying and addressing any delays or differences in a child’s communication skills as early as possible. This could include speech, language, or even non-verbal communication.
Let’s take a look at some of the key reasons:
Building Strong Communication Skills
The first few years of a child’s life are critical for developing strong communication skills. During this time, their brains are rapidly growing and forming connections that will lay the groundwork for future learning and development.
By addressing any speech or language delays early on, you can help your child build a solid foundation for effective communication. This could include improving their ability to express themselves, understand others, and use non-verbal cues.
This is especially important for children who are at risk for developmental delays or have a family history of speech and language difficulties. Early intervention can help guide children and their families by nurturing a child’s strengths and empowering their highest potential.
Improving Social Interaction
Communication is not just about talking and understanding words. It also plays a crucial role in social interaction and building relationships. Children with speech and language delays may struggle to interact with their peers, causing them to feel isolated or frustrated. This could lead to behavioral issues or even impact their self-esteem.
By addressing these delays early on, children can learn how to effectively communicate and interact with others. This will not only improve their social skills but also opens up opportunities for them to make new friends and engage in activities that they may have previously avoided due to communication difficulties.
Setting Up for Success
Research has shown that early intervention in speech and language development can help prevent future challenges and difficulties. Children who receive early support for their communication skills are less likely to experience academic and social difficulties, and dysregulation, which often is labeled as “behaviors.”
By working with a speech therapist, occupational therapists, or other professionals, parents can learn techniques to help their child improve their communication skills and support them in reaching important developmental milestones. This early intervention can set the foundation for successful communication throughout their childhood and into adulthood.
Improving Overall Quality of Life
Effective communication is a crucial aspect of everyday life. From forming relationships to navigating the world around us, strong communication skills can greatly improve a child’s overall quality of life. By intervening early, you can give your child the tools they need to communicate effectively and confidently. This can greatly improve their sense of self and confidence, leading to a happier and more fulfilling life.
Addressing Underlying Issues
Early intervention in speech and language development also allows for earlier detection of any underlying issues that may be causing communication delays. These could include developmental disorders such as autism, childhood apraxia of speech, or hearing impairments. The sooner these issues are identified, the sooner appropriate support and interventions can be put in place.
Supporting Individuality
Each child is unique and may require different approaches to support their speech and language development. Early intervention allows for early identification of a child’s unique strengths, specific needs and provides the opportunity for personalized interventions that best fit their individual learning style, interests, and abilities.
The Power of Holistic Therapies
Early intervention should always involve holistic approaches to support a child’s development. This could include incorporating play-based activities, music therapy, sign language, and/or sensory play into the intervention plan. By using a holistic approach, children can engage in fun and enjoyable activities while still developing their communication skills.
A Parent’s Role
As a parent, you play a crucial role in your child’s speech and language development. By intervening early, you are not only giving your child the best chance at success but also actively participating in their growth and development. You can support your child by engaging them in conversation, reading to them, and providing a language-rich environment. Additionally, it is important to seek professional guidance and support from speech-language pathologists or pediatricians if you have any concerns about your child’s communication skills.
Taking Action
Early intervention is key when it comes to supporting a child’s speech and language development. If you have concerns about your child’s communication skills, it is important to take action and seek help from a speech-language pathologist or other professionals who specialize in early intervention. By doing so, you are taking an active role in your child’s journey towards effective communication and setting them up for success in the future. Remember, it is never too early to intervene and support your child’s speech and language development.
Let’s work together to give our children the best possible start in life! Don’t hesitate to reach out for help and take action today, your child will thank you tomorrow. Keep advocating for their needs and supporting their growth every step of the way. Together, we can make a positive impact on our children’s role in this world. So, let’s continue to spread awareness and encourage early intervention for all children!
Thank you for being such a dedicated and loving parent. Your child is lucky to have you by their side on this journey. Remember, every small step counts and your efforts are making a big difference in your child’s life. Keep up the great work! Let’s keep advocating, learning, and growing together as a community to give our children the best possible start in life. Don’t forget, you are not alone on this journey. We are here to support and guide you every step of the way. Keep shining bright, parents! Your child’s success is our greatest gift!
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
KAELYN GREEN
Kaelyn Green is a licensed occupational therapist at Valued Voices. She is certified by the University of Southern California in Sensory Integration and is an advocate for addressing underlying sensory functioning in order to improve occupational performance. She is passionate about meeting children and families where they are at and seeks to tailor interventions to the unique needs of her clients. When she is not working, you will find Kaelyn taking care of her two goldendoodles, working in her garden, or taking trips to the Central Coast.
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
If you are already a bit familiar with GLP or know your kiddo is in Stage 1 of GLP, then you are in the right spot!
There is lots of variety in what you may hear in stage 1, however, the goal and how we support our kiddos’ in this stage is the same. The goal in Stage 1 is to increase the amount and variety of mitigable gestalts (or chunks of language) that your kiddo is using to spontaneously communicate, and the support is always acknowledging, digging deep to investigate the meaning and modeling language!
What you may hear in Gestalt Language Development Stage 1…
In Stage 1, you may here a few or many single words. Although your child may be using single words, this is different than Stage 3 (which we will get to in another blog). In this stage, your kiddo’s single words are “stuck,” meaning they do not combine these single words to communicate. You may also notice your kiddo’s speech is unintelligible, meaning it is difficult to understand. Your child is using rich intonation, but you are having a hard time understanding what they are saying most of the time. In this stage, you may also notice that your child using verbatim scripts that they have heard other people say, to communicate. This could also include scripts from TV shows, movies or songs. It is very important to remember that these repeated long scripts of language are serving a communicative intent; this is where our investigative work comes in. You may notice some or all the above in your kiddo when in this stage.
How can you support your Stage 1 GLP?
It is important to always acknowledge all your child’s communication by affirming their intent to communicate, even if you don’t understand what they are saying. This acknowledgement can be in the form of a smile, a head nod, saying “yeah!”, and/or repeating what they said. When we get curious and investigate our child’s communication, we can more deeply connect with what they are really trying to communicate with us. When a kiddo in this stage is repeating scripts, they are most likely always trying to communicate something with you. Try to figure out what the gestalt means, go back to the original source (the TV show, movie or song) or collaborate with other relevant people in your child’s life to really connect to the intention of the communication. Model what you think your child wants to say. It is completely okay if you do not get this right the first time, and you may need to try a few times but when you do get it right, you will know because your child will connect with you in a way that will let you know you got it! They could look at you, smile or repeat back what you said, showing you that you gave them the words that they wanted! Also, focus on modeling functional, meaningful, and declarative language. Use rich intonation and take the focus off asking your child questions.
Curious in learning more about GLP?
If you are wondering if your kiddo may be a GLP, book a complimentary consultation with me today so we can dig deeper into your child’s strengths.
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
Understanding language processing in children is a complex and multi-faceted experience that starts developing in early childhood. It involves not just the understanding of words and grammar but also the perception of sound, vision, and social cues. One aspect of language processing that is gaining attention among researchers, educators, and therapists is Gestalt Language Processing (GLP), also referred to as the Natural Language Acquisition (NLA) framework. GLP refers to how children perceive and organize language based on patterns and relationships, rather than isolated words or phrases. Gestalt language processing has emerged as a crucial component of language development in autistic children, yet it remains lesser-known among the general public.
This blog post aims to familiarize parents and educators of autistic children with the intricacies of gestalt language processing. We will explore the definition of gestalt language processing, the unique opportunities it presents, effective strategies that can be employed to support children, and inspiring case studies that highlight the potential for growth and development as we support and empower our gestalt language processors!
Gestalt theory or Gestalt psychology, first introduced in the early 20th century, refers to the concept of holistic perception, which means that our mind tends to perceive objects or patterns as a whole, rather than as a collection of individual parts. In language processing, Gestalt theory suggests that children perceive the meaning of a sentence or a phrase based on its structure, coherence, and context, rather than just the sum of its words. For instance, if a child hears the sentence “The cat chased the mouse,” they may understand the meaning of the whole sentence, rather than just the individual words. Gestalt language processing is, therefore, a natural way of understanding language, as it matches the way our brain processes information.
Gestalt Language Processing in Autism
Most autistic children are likely gestalt language processors, however, both neurotypical and neurodivergent children can develop language in this way. There are six stages of gestalt language development, and although some may require support across all stages, some children may not. Just like analytic language processors, gestalt language processors can also be delayed in their language development.
Researchers have found that gestalt language processing is crucial for multiple aspects of early language development in autistic children. Firstly, it helps children to infer the meaning of new words based on the context they are used in. For example, if a child hears the sentence “She brushed her teeth with a brush,” they may guess that a “brush” could mean a toothbrush, rather than a hairbrush because it makes more sense in the context. Secondly, gestalt language processing helps children to identify the subject and object of a sentence correctly and understand how they relate to each other. This skill is especially important for comprehension and expression of complex sentences. Finally, Gestalt language processing supports children’s ability to form mental models of events or stories, which enhances a child’s narrative skills and creativity.
Research suggests that gestalt and configural processing may be areas of strength for some autistic children, providing a unique window into their cognitive and learning potential, if harnessed effectively. Understanding and addressing gestalt language processing is therefore key to empowering autistic children.
Ways to Identify a Gestalt Language Processor
LONG SCRIPTS:
Repeating long scripts that they may have heard from TV shows, videos, movies, books, songs, communicative partners, etc… after a delay. It’s a chunk of language that is said in the same way each time. These can be said in or out of context.
Example: “If you give a mouse a cookie!” Child may say this every time they want a snack or they are hungry. This comes from their favorite book, “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie”.
RICH INTONATION:
Gestalt language processors have been called “intonation babies”. Often, GLP’s are attracted to high intonation and emotion of utterances. Sometimes, when a child uses rich intonation, it may be difficult to understand what they are trying to say, but that is where our detective work comes in! Often, the intonation gives a clue into the source of their utterance. For example, it might sound like a line from their favorite song, book or movie.
Example: “Clean up, clean up, everybody, everywhere.” Child says this with the same intonation pattern and emotion that their teacher/parent uses every time a transition is coming. The child is often using this gestalt to communicate that they want to do something different.
UNINTELLIGIBLE & LONG STRINGS OF LANGUAGE:
This is frequently mislabeled as “jargon” because you are unable to understand what the child is saying. However, if we tap into that inner detective, you can hear that these long strings of unintelligible language are gestalts coming from a source (ex: TV shows, movies, videos, song, books, etc.). These longer utterances are often unintelligible because the child has a harder time hearing the word as a unit, so it sounds like it is all blended together into one string, to someone who is unfamiliar to their gestalts and gestalt language processing.
Example: “…busgoroundnround.” The child is saying “…Bus go round and round” (from their favorite song, “Wheels on the Bus”), although it may be difficult to understand this string of language.
SINGLE WORDS:
Child is able to label or name items and may respond with single words to prompts and/or questions, but these single words are “stuck.” These children are often the most difficult to recognize as gestalt language processors. When the child is stuck using single words gestalts, they have difficulty combining single words with other words in order to expand their utterance length.
Example: “ball” Child says this every time they see a ball or any round object (ex: an orange is also called “ball”). This single word now has a much larger meaning and now is used to label every round object. It is difficult for the child to build upon this single word (ex: “white ball”, “big ball”, etc.)
What are the stages of gestalt language development?
If you are curious to learn more about the six stages of gestalt language development, please click the button below.
There are several ways parents, educators, and therapists can support gestalt language processing in young children. Firstly, it is essential to expose children to rich linguistic input that contains diverse sentence structures, vocabulary, and contextual cues. Reading books, telling stories, and using multisensory teaching methods are effective ways to achieve this. Secondly, providing opportunities for children to engage in interactive and cooperative language-rich activities such as child-led play, role-play, dialogues, and games can enhance their social language skills and gestalt perception. Thirdly, giving feedback and modeling language that highlights relationships and patterns, such as using conjunctions, prepositions, and connectors, can strengthen children’s gestalt language processing.
Supporting gestalt language processing in autistic children requires a multi-faceted approach, involving parents, educators, and speech therapists. Here are some strategies and interventions that have shown promise:
Speech & Language Therapy and Language Interventions
Speech & language therapy can be particularly effective in targeting gestalt language processing difficulties. Making sure your speech language pathologist (SLP) is trained in Gestalt language processing is very important when supporting your child.
Parent and Professional Tips
Child-Led & Directed: Allow the child to lead. Go with the flow of their direction and engage in the things they are interested in. Play with what the child wants to play with and model language naturally during play.
Real-life Contexts: Model language skills in the context of everyday activities that the child enjoys and can relate to.
Model Appropriate Language Use: Model and teach language in various social contexts. Make sure this feels natural. If it doesn’t, hold off and try again another time. Modeling language during play should always feel natural.
Don’t Eliminate Gestalts. The child’s gestalts (scripts) are a way of communication. Gestalt language processing is natural language development, which makes the child’s gestalts meaningful. Acknowledging the child’s gestalts empowers them that their communication is meaningful and valid. Building rapport and trust as communicative partners is so important when supporting children’s development.
Acknowledge Scripts & Validate them as Communication. Whether you know the meaning yet or not, you can and should always be validating the child. You can repeat the script back, smile, nod your head, etc.. to let the child know their communication was heard and is valid.
Become a Detective: Do the work and try to figure out what the child’s gestalt (script) means. Even if you think you know what it means, model what you think your child is trying to say. Keep trying until you get it right, and trust me you will, because you will get that “a-ha” magical moment from your child, where they will show you that you got it! Most gestalts aren’t going to be literal, so ask your questions to dig deeper into the meaning of what the child really means. Some important questions to consider: What sources is the child exposed to frequently? Which source is this gestalt coming from? Is the script used at certain times of day or around certain situations? What is my child’s body language like? (there are so many more questions that arise when we dig deeper)
Do NOT Ask Questions: Asking questions frequently can become frustrating for the child, and for you too! Most GLP’s begin answering questions when they begin self-generating language, which is around stages 3 and on. So instead, try commenting, narrating and pausing. When we do this, we are giving our child a mitigable model that they can use in the future!
Create a Supportive & Knowledge Team: If you are a parent, find a team who understands, acknowledges and accepts your child’s language development in order to better support you and your child. SLPs will be able to identify if your child is a gestalt language processor, as well as help identify the stages they may be in and ways to support your child through the stages as they move to self-generated language.
Case Studies and Success Stories
Real-life examples and success stories can provide hope and inspiration for families and educators of children with autism. By sharing these narratives, we aim to showcase the impact that understanding and addressing gestalt language processing can have on a child’s overall development.
Below is a story about one of our shining stars that has blossomed using their unique strengths and their learning style to empower their voice:
“Since starting with Valued Voices, I have seen truly remarkable growth in her ability to communicate meaningfully. When we first started, she mostly communicated in memorized phrases from her favorite movies, tv shows, and books. She could not answer simple questions. Now, she communicates wants and needs clearly, answers questions, and is starting to hold conversations. Identifying her as a gestalt language processor has also helped me to better understand the way her brain works and as a result, enables me to communicate with her more effectively. Working with your team has truly been life changing for my daughter and our little family. You all understand her and have helped me to understand her as well.”
The Transformative Power of Consistent Support
By understanding how children perceive and organize language based on patterns and relationships, parents, educators, and therapists can enhance their language skills, social communication, and overall learning. Consistent and structured support at home and at school can make an extraordinary difference.
At Valued Voices, we believe the biggest success comes when we focus on a child’s strength and work as a team to empower their voice and their independence. We not only provide services, one-on-one in our center, but we provide group classes, sessions in the community and sessions in your kiddo’s school to support you and your family in all environments. We also understand that as parents, you are your child’s greatest teacher and need attention, so we offer support groups for parents and parent coaching classes.
By providing diverse and engaging linguistic input, interactive opportunities, and feedback that emphasizes context and acknowledges unique strengths, children can develop their language in a natural and meaningful way.
Bringing it all Together
Gestalt language processing is a fascinating and important aspect of early language development that deserves more attention and support. By delving into the realm of gestalt language processing in autistic children, and appreciating the beauty and complexity of language, we have uncovered a critical aspect of their language development that warrants attention and understanding. As parents and educators, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the strengths and challenges that gestalt language processing presents. Embracing these differences and guiding our little ones, can unlock a child’s deepest potential and empower them to raise their voice.
We hope this blog post has shed light on the topic of gestalt language processing as a natural way of developing language in children, and provided valuable insights for those supporting these exceptional humans. Encouraging an open dialogue and the exchange of experiences within this community can further advance our collective knowledge and approach to language processing, especially in autistic children. The journey of language development is as unique as the children themselves, and by fostering an environment of understanding, patience, and tailored support, we set the stage for growth and success.
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
GENNA HENDERSON
Genna has been with Valued Voices since 2019, she joined the family after graduating with her bachelor’s degree in sociology and a minor in communication sciences and disorders from Pacific University in Oregon. Genna has always been passionate about helping give opportunities to others and believes all children have a joyous light inside them that deserves to be shown to the world. She knows that giving people the chance to express themselves allows them to reach new heights internally and in their communities.
Your little baby just turned one year old! This is a wonderful moment to cherish and celebrate! It is also a time when your little love is absorbing even more of the world and beginning a journey of self-expression!
Self-expression for small children can include the way they move or gesture, the way they make eye contact, and the way they use their words. You may notice your little one is beginning to speak words to communicate wants and needs, and to share thoughts and feelings. It’s exciting to see your baby go from a small infant to a toddler with a unique personality. It’s an exciting time!
Language and communication are complex. As a parent, you long to hear that very first word. Before children start speaking, however, they must first understand the words that are spoken to them. They must attach meaning to words. This is known as receptive language. For example, if you ask them to go get the ball and they do, you know that their receptive language is developing, even though they do not yet speak any words. Once you know they understand what a ball is, they may start saying the word “ball,” or “ba … ” This is when expressive language begins.
Parents often wonder if their child’s speech, language and communication skills are on track, especially when they begin comparing their little one to other children or siblings. If an older sibling has autism, you may wonder if this child does as well. It is important for parents to know that child development is highly individualized and dependent on many factors.
Sometimes parents search for charts outlining developmental milestones. These charts have advantages and disadvantages. They serve to show parents and professionals if a child is developing at a typical rate, but they can also add unnecessary stress and worry since many children meet milestones much earlier or later than what the data suggests they should. As a professional and child communication expert, I find they bring stress to many families and can take the focus off the actual child and onto a version of success that has no clear meaning. When analyzing milestone charts, take into account your little one’s unique set of strengths. Use the milestones as a guide to help support you in empowering your little one’s voice.
I am a firm believer in parental instinct. If you feel that your child is behind in one or more areas of development, you are likely picking up on something that needs attention and support. This support could include parent coaching and education, or direct therapy for your child. Either way, my motto is, “When in doubt, rule it out.”
I also strongly advocate for early intervention. Do not let anyone tell you to “wait and see,” and don’t convince yourself to just wait. The earlier you provide the quality of care and support your child needs, the more present and connected your child will feel.
Let Go of Blame, Shame and Guilt
The journey of self-expression starts within the womb. Along the way, there are so many ways to help little ones become more connected to their voice. As children near their first birthday, parents are anxious to hear their first words. What happens when they don’t hear those first words, and struggle to understand their children’s wants and needs? Parents often go into a cycle of blame, shame and guilt. As parents, we need to let that go! Now is the time to help them find their voice and self-expression. We are all doing our best and must move past those negative feelings so we can provide the best care for our children in the present.
Five Tips for Talking with your Toddler
There are many ways to connect with your child. The following tips will help you communicate and connect with your toddler. I recognize that every child is different, so try out these tips and see what works best for your child. When implementing these tips, don’t compare your child with other children, and don’t rush the process. Be patient, and remember that communication does not only take place with words. We can communicate and convey our thoughts, needs, wants, and feelings in a wide range of ways.
REPETITION: Repeat words and phrases over and over. Think of repetition when you are selecting books to read with your toddler or toys for play.
SIMPLIFIY: Use short phrases and sentences. Continue to model sentences that are grammatically correct and complete so that your little one is hearing the right form. When it comes to structed activities, use a few words to draw your little one’s attention to the main vocabulary.
PARALEL TALK: Narrate everything your child is doing. Talk out loud and use language to descrive your little one’s actions. For example, if your little ones pushes a car, say “push car.” If she is running, you can say “run, run, run.”
SELF TALK: Narrate everyhing you are doing. This is similar to parallel tak, but involves talking out loud about your actions. For example, if you are cutting uo an apple for a snack, you can say “cut apple” or “mommy is cutting an apple.”
CREATE OPPORTUNITIES: Choose a daily routine – something that happens almost the same way everyday – and focus on implementing these concepts into that routine. The more you practice, the more your child is learning! You can also create opportunities by the way you structure your environment and daily routines.
These tips are designed to make you aware of all the amazing things you are likely doing already, and to give you the confidence to connect with your child and build his or her self-expression. You can find even more tips to support your little one’s journey at our blog on “25 Tips for Talking with your toddler“
Expression can come in many different forms. The earlier we expose our children to the many ways in which we communicate, the more empowered they become. Language and communication opportunities are happening every day, all the time. You don’t need to sit your little one down at a table to empower self-expression; just use the moments that are being created for you! Your little one’s smiles, gestures and words are all moments to be celebrated. No matter where you and your little one are on this journey of self-expression, just remember that you’ve got this!
Sholeh Shahinfar is the Founder of Valued Voices, a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, Sholeh embraces a vegan lifestyle, loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, practicing yoga, traveling, and spending time with her loved ones.
As a parent or professional working with little ones, I am sure that you have noticed how much children love to mimic what we say and what we do. Sometimes, we wish they wouldn’t copy everything we do and say, but when it comes to speech and language development, I encourage kiddo’s to copy me all day, every day!
Using imitation to teach speech and language skills is a great way to nurture your child’s language development. The great thing about teaching imitation skills is that it is not just for verbal language, it can be used for nonverbal language skills too, such as actions, body movements, and facial expressions!
Whenever I have parent coaching classes, I always think of tips to give parents that are functional, meaning they can be done anywhere, anytime and require little to no prep and planning time and imitation encompasses all of this! Imitation is something parents and professionals can do anytime, anywhere and it is actually one of the biggest and best supports for your little one’s communication skills and overall development.
What is imitation?
Imitation is a strategy that includes the mimicking of words, sounds, actions and facial expressions and is a precursor to your little one’s language development. When we use verbal imitation skills, it shows our little ones how words connect to actions and behaviors, which helps children make associations between words.
Imitation can begin as early as 8 months old when a child imitates a gesture like clapping hands. Around 18 months of age, children begin imitating simple actions they see adults do (like pretending to talk on the phone), and when they are 36 months, children begin imitating more complex actions (like pretending to cook a meal). There are several types of imitation, including: gross motor imitation (clapping hands), play imitation (pretending to drive a car), and sound imitation (imitating animal sounds). Teaching reciprocal imitation skills at an early age not only helps your little one develop verbal communication skills, but it also helps support play skills, joint attention, and social interaction skills.
How do I work on imitation with my child?
You can work on imitation in the car, at home, at the park…basically you can work on imitation skills wherever you and your little one are together! The best is if you can get face-to-face with your child and maintain eye contact, this not only supports your kiddo’s communication skills, but it also works on joint attention which is a critical skill for language development.
When you are engaged with your little one and they are motivated, the more likely they are to imitate you, so picking something of high interest to your little one and/or following their lead is super important. When you have your kiddo’s attention, imitation usually follows. Try singing songs, being animated, and using high affect to keep your little one engaged. Another great tip with imitation is not only can your child imitate you, but YOU can imitate YOUR CHILD too. Mimic their gestures, facial expression and sounds!
Why is imitation important for my child’s development?
Imitation is an important skill for typically developing children, as well as children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and other developmental differences. Since imitation skills are an early developing skill, it is no surprise that early intervention is key for targeting this very important skill. Imitation skills are one of the precursor to your little one’s language abilities, social communication skills, and overall development.
Imitation is a crucial aspect of your little one’s development. It allows your little one to learn new things quickly by watching what is going on around them. Strong imitation skills provide a way for your little one to learn about themselves and others, and opens up endless opportunities for learning! For guidance specific to your child, please contact us today at[email protected] or by calling us at949.516.0766 to set up a complimentary consultation.
Sholeh Shahinfar is the founder of Valued Voices, and a licensed Speech Language Pathologist, Child Communication Specialist and Certified Oral Motor Therapist. She is passionate about uplifting children’s voices in the world and inspiring self-expression. In her free time, she loves going to the ocean, exploring nature with her pup Kobe, and spending time with her family and friends!
