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Sunday, November 3, 2024

Implant Slimakowy (Cochlear Implant) i BAHA w Polsce

Kliniki, źródła i kontakty

1. Klinika Otorynolaryngologii, Chirurgii Głowy i Szyi – Warszawskie Uniwersyteckie Centrum Kliniczne (UCK WUM)

  • Specjalizacja: Otorynolaryngologia, Chirurgia Głowy i Szyi.
  • Adres: ul. Banacha 1A, 02-097 Warszawa.
  • Kontakt:
    • Telefon: +48 22 599 25 21 lub +48 22 599 17 21
    • Fax: +48 22 599 25 23
    • E-mail: otolaryngology@wum.edu.pl 
  • Wielu specialistów z zakresu logopedii, na przykład:
    • Mgr Agnieszka Pastuszka, certyfikowany surdologopeda specjalizujący się w rehabilitacji osób z uszkodzeniem słuchu.
    • Więcej informacji: Strona Kliniki Otorynolaryngologii

2. Stowarzyszenie "Słyszeć bez Granic"

  • Informacje na temat implantów słuchowych, rehabilitacja dzieci z implantami oraz wsparcie dla rodzin.
  • Adres: ul. Młyńska 23/1, 89-600 Chojnice.
  • Kontakt:
  • Dodatkowe informacje i źródła dostępne na stronie: slyszecbezgranic.pl

3. Polska Fundacja Pomocy Dzieciom Niedosłyszącym – "ECHO"

  • Obcje dla dzieci z niedosłuchem i implantami ślimakowymi, w tym pomoc finansowa, informacje i zródła edukacyjne.
  • Adres: ul. Grójecka 65A, II piętro, 02-094 Warszawa.
  • Kontakt:
  • Dodatkowe informacje dostępne na stronie: fundacja-echo.pl

Wymienione instytucje oferują wsparcie kliniczne, doradztwo logopedyczne oraz pomoc dla rodzin, które rozważają zrobienie implantów ślimakowych lub aparatów BAHA.

Understanding Cochlear Implants and BAHA Hearing Aids

Key Differences, Cost, and Speech Therapy Approaches



Bone Anchored Hearing Aids (BAHA) and cochlear implants are both devices designed to assist individuals with hearing loss, but they operate differently and suit different types of hearing impairment.

Differences Between BAHA and Cochlear Implants

1. Mechanism of Hearing Support:

BAHA devices use bone conduction to transmit sound directly to the inner ear by bypassing the outer and middle ear. This device is typically used for individuals with conductive or mixed hearing loss or single-sided deafness. The BAHA’s sound processor picks up environmental sounds, transforms them into vibrations, and sends them through the skull bones to the cochlea, where they are interpreted by the auditory nerve.

Cochlear implants are designed for individuals with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss, where the inner ear hair cells are damaged or missing. Cochlear implants bypass the damaged hair cells by directly stimulating the auditory nerve through an array of electrodes placed in the cochlea. The implant converts sounds into electrical signals that the brain interprets as sound.

2. Surgical Requirements:

BAHA surgery involves placing a titanium implant in the skull bone behind the ear, which integrates with the bone over time. A sound processor is then attached to the implant via an abutment or magnet, allowing for vibrations to pass directly to the inner ear.

Cochlear implant surgery is more complex, involving the placement of an internal electrode array in the cochlea and a receiver-stimulator under the skin. The internal parts communicate with an external sound processor through a magnetic transmitter.

3. Suitability and Outcomes:

BAHA is best for those with conductive or mixed hearing loss and single-sided deafness. It provides clear sound perception but doesn’t offer the full auditory range of cochlear implants.

Cochlear implants are suitable for individuals with severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss who gain little or no benefit from traditional hearing aids. While they provide a broader range of sounds, the brain needs time to adapt to the new input from the implant.

Cost Comparison

The costs of BAHA and cochlear implants vary by country, provider, and insurance coverage, with cochlear implants generally being more expensive:

BAHA devices generally cost between $4,000 and $12,000. Surgical and follow-up costs vary depending on insurance, though some insurance may cover significant portions of the device and surgery.

Cochlear implants are more costly, typically ranging from $30,000 to $50,000 per ear, including the device, surgical fees, and initial therapy. Insurance coverage may vary, but many insurers will cover cochlear implants due to their established efficacy for severe hearing loss.

Parts of BAHA and Cochlear Implants

BAHA Components:

  • Implant: A titanium implant embedded in the bone behind the ear.
  • Abutment/Magnet: Connects the sound processor to the implant; an abutment attaches through the skin, while newer models use a magnetic attachment that sits under the skin.
  • Sound Processor: Picks up sound and converts it into vibrations transmitted through the skull to the cochlea. 
Cochlear Implant Components:
  • Internal Implant: Consists of a receiver/stimulator placed under the skin and an electrode array implanted in the cochlea.
  • External Processor: Includes a microphone, sound processor, and transmitter coil, which sends sound signals to the internal device via electromagnetic waves.
  • Battery: Powers the external processor and can be rechargeable or disposable.

Speech Therapy for BAHA and Cochlear Implants

Speech Therapy for BAHA Users:

For BAHA users, speech therapy focuses on sound discrimination, language comprehension, and listening skills. Exercises often emphasize recognizing sound direction, differentiating similar sounds, and improving vocabulary. Examples of activities include:

  • Sound Localization: Practicing identifying the source and direction of sounds to improve spatial awareness.
  • Rhyming and Sound Differentiation Games: Discriminating between similar sounds to build phonological awareness.
  • Sentence Completion: Completing sentences or describing objects using a limited set of cues to support language structure.

Speech Therapy for Cochlear Implant Users:

For cochlear implant users, therapy is typically more intensive and includes exercises to help the brain adapt to new auditory input. Key areas of focus include auditory training, speech clarity, and comprehension. Examples of activities include:

  • Sound Identification Exercises: Identifying everyday sounds (e.g., bell, car horn) to strengthen auditory recognition.
  • Auditory Discrimination: Differentiating between various speech sounds and phonemes is crucial as implant users adapt to their “new” sense of hearing.
  • Storytelling and Question-Answer Drills: Reading stories and asking questions about details and context to improve comprehension.
  • Conversational Practice: Practicing real-life conversational skills to improve listening, turn-taking, and expression.

Resources and Video Links

BAHA Resources:

Informational Link: https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/home/products-and-accessories/cochlear-baha-system - Provides device specifications, patient stories, and resources for BAHA users.

YouTube Video: BAHA Bone Conduction Hearing Device - maintenance and accessories

https://youtu.be/NEOg8sGE2UU?si=TbXr9goCeBPJjJXG

Bone Anchored Hearing Aid BAHA https://youtu.be/HD38BIYa1hA?si=PWUa3grWoMc4ErIc


Cochlear Implant Resources:

Informational Link: The Nucleus® Implant System

https://www.cochlear.com/us/en/home/products-and-accessories/cochlear-nucleus-system - Detailed information on cochlear implants, surgery expectations, and success stories.

YouTube Video: What is A Cochlear Implant? | How Hearing Aids and Implants Help Recover Hearing Loss https://youtu.be/qbFi1ui9FU8?si=9Ln4MK9IwgX3Mnhs

 

More Resources:

Cochlear Implant (CI) vs Bone Anchored Hearing Aid (BAHA)

https://youtu.be/cEtpWnvqpa4?si=pbHR7YIlxFFpCn-w

Osia vs Baha (with Cochlear Americas and Dr. Sheryl Lewin) for conductive hearing loss

https://youtu.be/doxlT2rctkE?si=oK8Xgat37UZ9PAo5 Osia for 12 or older

Sunday, October 20, 2024

Saturday, October 5, 2024

Empowering Children with ADHD: Best Practices for Teachers and Caregivers


When working with children who are diagnosed with ADHD, Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) must use therapy approaches that address attention, impulsivity, executive functioning, and language skills. ADHD affects attention, organization, emotional regulation, and social communication, so therapy should focus on these areas. Here are effective approaches, techniques, and carefully selected resources to support children with ADHD in speech-language therapy.

 

1. Executive Functioning Strategies

ADHD affects executive functioning, which includes organizing thoughts, remembering instructions, and completing tasks. SLPs can focus on helping children develop these skills to improve their communication.

TECHNIQUES:

  • Graphic Organizers: Use visual aids (e.g., mind maps, story webs) to help children organize thoughts for storytelling or answering questions.
  • Task Analysis: Break tasks into smaller steps and use checklists to guide children through complex activities.
  • Visual Schedules: Provide structured visual timetables to help with task transitions and routines.
  • Self-Monitoring: Encourage self-assessment through checklists (e.g., “Did I say all the key points?”).

RESOURCES:

Book:

“The Executive Functioning Workbook for Kids: 40 Fun Activities to Improve Memory, Flexibility, Self-Control, and More” by Sharon Grand, PsyD, provides practical strategies for improving executive functioning. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/8WcXUaC

 

2. Behavioral Techniques

Children with ADHD benefit from structured feedback, reinforcement, and explicit rules for communication tasks.

TECHNIQUES:

  • Positive Reinforcement: Use praise or token systems to encourage participation and attention.
  • Token Economies: Offer tokens for completing tasks that can later be exchanged for rewards.
  • Time Timers: Use visual countdown clocks to reduce transition anxiety and focus attention during tasks.
  • RESOURCES:
  • Time Timer: helps children manage their time and focus by providing a visual countdown. https://a.co/d/509rO9I

 

3. Attention-Enhancing Techniques

ADHD makes sustained attention difficult, so therapy should include strategies to help children stay focused during communication tasks.

TECHNIQUES:

  • Chunking Information: Break information into smaller, manageable parts to help children process and retain details.
  • Attention-Focused Games: Interactive activities like Simon Says, memory games, or sequencing tasks can improve listening and attention.
  • Turn-Taking Activities: Structured turn-taking during conversations encourages active listening and focus.

RESOURCES:

App: GoNoodle offers movement-based activities to give children "brain breaks" that improve attention during therapy sessions. GoNoodle Website https://www.gonoodle.com/

 

4. Language and Communication Techniques

Children with ADHD often struggle with expressive language, word retrieval, and pragmatic (social) communication skills.

TECHNIQUES:

  • Visual Supports for Vocabulary: Use pictures or word walls to help children improve vocabulary and word retrieval.
  • Social Stories: Create personalized social stories to teach social rules and expected communication responses.
  • Role-Playing: Use role-playing activities to practice social communication in various contexts.
  • Sentence Builders: To develop expressive language skills, start with basic sentence structures and gradually add complexity (adjectives, prepositional phrases, etc.). 

RESOURCES:

Book: "The Incredible 5-Point Scale: Assisting Students in Understanding Social Interactions and Controlling Their Emotional Responses" by Kari Dunn Buron and Mitzi Curtis. This book provides a practical framework to help children with ADHD and other social communication difficulties understand and manage their emotions and behaviors. Available on Amazon:  https://a.co/d/3w5PkRe

 

5. Metacognitive Strategies

Teaching children to think about their thinking (metacognition) helps them regulate their communication and problem-solving strategies.

TECHNIQUES: 

  • Think Aloud: Model the thought process behind planning and organizing speech or tasks (e.g., “First, I’ll write down what I need to remember…”).
  • Verbal Rehearsal: Encourage children to verbally rehearse their ideas before speaking.
  • Goal Setting: Establish small, achievable communication goals for each session to promote focus and task completion.

RESOURCES:

Book: "The ADHD Workbook for Kids" by Lawrence Shapiro provides interactive exercises for improving focus, organization, and self-control. Available on Amazon: The ADHD Workbook for Kids https://a.co/d/9Y94dnl

 

6. Pragmatic/Social Skills Interventions

Children with ADHD often struggle with social communication, understanding non-verbal cues, and following conversational rules.

TECHNIQUES:

  • Video Modeling: Show videos that model appropriate social interactions to teach conversational skills and non-verbal cues.
  • Comic Strip Conversations: Draw out conversations using stick figures to illustrate turn-taking, emotions, and appropriate responses.
  • Social Scripts: Provide scripts for common social situations (e.g., initiating a conversation) and practice them with the child.

RESOURCES:

Video Modeling: https://youtu.be/38y_1EWIE9I?si=4wLFFsf_2scNDQYZ

School Talk - Comic strip conversations: https://youtu.be/_laRP2-ZPZ4?si=AO62YyLzwB0r0BEu

Communication: https://autismteachingstrategies.com/communication/  

Interaction: https://autismteachingstrategies.com/interaction/

Emotions: Free downloads activities https://autismteachingstrategies.com/emotions/

 

7. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques

Children with ADHD benefit from mindfulness exercises that help them regulate their emotions and improve focus during therapy.

TECHNIQUES:

Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing techniques to help children calm down and manage impulsivity.

Mindfulness Games: To improve sustained attention, use activities requiring sensory input (e.g., focusing on sounds and textures).

RESOURCES:

  • Website: GoZen! offers engaging animated videos, activities, and courses that teach children to manage their emotions, focus better, and develop mindfulness strategies. It covers topics like stress management, resilience, and self-regulation, which are beneficial for children with ADHD. https://gozen.com/

Book:

“Sitting Still Like a Frog: Mindfulness Exercises for Kids (and Their Parents)" by Eline Snel. This book provides simple, playful mindfulness exercises for children to help them develop focus, calmness, and emotional regulation. It’s easy to integrate into therapy sessions and helps kids manage their ADHD symptoms through mindfulness. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/27Pkw6v

 

Additional Resources:

Books:

“How to Reach and Teach Children with ADD/ADHD” by Sandra Rief: A resource for managing attention difficulties and supporting communication in educational settings. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/38mEktc  

Websites:

The ADHD Foundation: Offers strategies and resources for ADHD management, including improving communication and social skills. ADHD Foundation Website https://www.adhdfoundation.org.uk/

ADDitude: Articles, tools, and printable guides for managing ADHD, with a focus on communication, attention, and organization. https://www.additudemag.com

Social Skills Activities for Children with Autism, AutismTeachingStrategies.com by Joel Shaul

https://autismteachingstrategies.com/ in many languages, many great printouts.

Friday, September 13, 2024

Strengthening Sound Discrimination, Pronunciation, and Auditory Memory for Children with Hearing Challenges


In addressing sound discrimination, pronunciation, and working memory in children with cochlear implants or hearing aids, auditory-oral training remains one of the most effective approaches. Research in recent years has reinforced the importance of early and consistent intervention to develop speech and language skills. Here are key strategies and relevant resources that speech therapists can employ:

1. Auditory Discrimination Training

STRATEGY: Focused auditory discrimination exercises, a highly effective and confidence-boosting method, can help children with hearing devices differentiate between speech sounds. Exercises should involve contrasting minimal pairs (words that differ by only one sound, like “bat” and “pat”) to teach sound differentiation. Gradually increasing the complexity from simple sounds to more complex sentence structures helps children become better at distinguishing between speech sounds in connected speech.

  • RESEARCH: Studies by Flexer & Madell (2019) emphasize structured auditory training for developing discrimination skills, noting that success is tied to how well children can map sound to meaning through repetition and exposure to varied auditory stimuli.
  • EXAMPLE: As speech therapists, you can implement a game-like approach where children are asked to distinguish between similar-sounding words (e.g., /b/ vs. /p/) with increasing background noise, reflecting typical classroom conditions. Your innovative and resourceful use of both recorded and live voices to simulate real-world listening environments is crucial.
  • RESOURCE: "Children with Hearing Loss: Developing Listening and Talking" by Elizabeth Cole and Carol Flexer. The book provides a detailed auditory-verbal therapy framework to improve auditory discrimination and sound detection. Available on Amazon https://a.co/d/5zI2eNa

2. Articulation and Pronunciation Practice

3. Memory Training to Strengthen Working Memory

  • STRATEGY: Improving working memory is crucial for language development, especially for children with cochlear implants or hearing aids. Techniques like Auditory Sequencing Tasks and Repetition of Spoken Instructions help children retain and manipulate information in their working memory.
  • RESEARCH: A study by Pisoni et al. (2018) found that children with cochlear implants showed significant gains in working memory when auditory-verbal therapy was coupled with memory-enhancing activities.
  • EXAMPLE: Use auditory memory games where the child must recall sequences of spoken instructions, such as “clap your hands, touch your nose, then jump.” Increase complexity by introducing multiple-step instructions.
  • RESOURCE: "Cognitive and Working Memory Training in Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Children" by David Pisoni et al. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3293211/ 

4. Incorporating Visual and Tactile Cues

  • STRATEGY: Children with hearing aids and cochlear implants benefit from multisensory learning approaches, such as pairing auditory input with visual cues (e.g., lip-reading or gestures) and tactile feedback (e.g., feeling the vibration of their own voice).
  • RESEARCH: Spencer et al. (2020) highlights the benefit of combining auditory with visual learning strategies, which improves speech perception and production in children with hearing impairments.
  • EXAMPLE: Use visual aids alongside auditory activities, such as flashcards or interactive software. For example, if practicing /sh/ sounds, the therapist could model the mouth shape while the child mimics it, receiving both, visual and auditory feedback.
  • RESOURCE: Hearing Loss: How It Affects Communication https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/h/hearing-communication Language and Communication of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) Individuals https://apps.asha.org/EvidenceMaps/Maps/LandingPage/04c03287-8b12-ed11-8135-005056834e2b   

5. Repetition and Consistency in Language Exposure

STRATEGY: Regular and consistent exposure to speech sounds and structured auditory input is key to solidifying speech and language development. A language-rich environment is essential to encourage children to use their auditory skills consistently.

RESEARCH: According to Estabrooks et al. (2016), children benefit from daily auditory routines embedded in their school and home environments, which help them generalize learned speech sounds into everyday contexts. Create routines that involve storytelling, read-aloud sessions, or structured conversations in which the child is encouraged to use newly learned words or sounds. Daily practice and repetition help build memory and articulation accuracy.

RESOURCE: "Auditory-Verbal Therapy: Science, Research, and Practice" by Warren Estabrooks highlights strategies to ensure repetition and consistency in auditory learning for children with hearing loss. Available on Amazon: https://a.co/d/9MHzrXu









Sunday, September 1, 2024

Setting Up Speech Therapy Materials for a Successful School Year

 

Getting organized before the school year starts can save you time and stress later on. Here’s a practical approach to organizing your speech therapy materials so you’re ready to hit the ground running.

1. Sort by Goals and Skills

Example: Start by grouping your materials according to the specific goals and skills you’ll be targeting, like articulation, language, social skills, or fluency. Use clear plastic bins or file folders for each category. Label them with specific skills like “/s/ Articulation,” “Vocabulary Development,” or “Pragmatic Language.” This way, when you have a student who needs to work on a particular skill, you can easily grab the appropriate materials.

2. Use a Binder System for Worksheets

Example: Gather all your printable worksheets and activities into binders organized by topic. For instance, have one binder for articulation, another for grammar, and another for social skills. Within each binder, use dividers to further organize by specific sounds or grammar targets. You can use sheet protectors to keep everything neat and reusable. Make sure to have a “go-to” binder for frequently used materials to pull out what you need quickly.

3. Create a Digital Resource Library

Example: For any digital resources you use, like apps, PDFs, or online games, create a well-organized folder system on your computer or cloud storage. Name your folders clearly, like “Speech Apps,” “Digital Flashcards,” or “Interactive Games.” Bookmark your favorite online resources in a dedicated browser folder. Consider creating a digital inventory list to find and access what you need during sessions quickly.

4. Develop a “Grab-and-Go” Kit

Example: Use a portable kit with essential items you use frequently, like a small mirror, articulation cards, a tally counter, and a dry-erase board with markers. Keep this kit in a tote bag or small bin near your desk so it’s easy to grab when you’re moving between rooms or working with different students. This way, you’re always prepared, even if you need to adjust your plan on the fly.

5. Color-Code by Grade Level

Example: Color-coding your materials can be a game-changer if you work with different age groups. Use different colored bins, folders, or labels for each grade level. For instance, red is for kindergarten, blue is for 1st-2nd grade, green is for 3rd-5th grade, and so on. This helps you quickly locate materials appropriate for each group.

6. Label Everything

Example: Invest in a good label maker or use clear, printed labels to mark your bins, folders, binders, and shelves. Be specific with your labels – instead of just “Articulation,” try “Articulation – Initial /r/.” This makes it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for without digging through piles of materials.

7. Set Up a Rotating System

Example: For materials you use seasonally or thematically, like Halloween or winter-themed activities, set up a rotating storage system. Keep the current season’s materials easily accessible in your main storage area, and store off-season materials in a separate spot, like a closet or high shelf. Rotate them as the year progresses so they are always ready with fresh, relevant materials.

8. Create a Central Storage Area

Example: Designate a specific area in your therapy room as your central storage hub. This could be a bookshelf, a rolling cart, or a set of drawers. Keep all your most-used materials here, organized by category and clearly labeled. Consider using clear bins or baskets to see what’s inside at a glance. Ensure everything has a designated spot, so it’s easy to put things back after each session.

9. Plan a Weekly Reorganization Routine

Example: Dedicate a few minutes at the end of each week to tidy up and reorganize. Refile worksheets, restock your “grab-and-go” kit and make sure everything is back in its place. This routine helps you stay organized throughout the school year and prevents clutter from piling up.

10. Keep a Master Inventory List

Example: Create a simple spreadsheet or document that lists all your materials, including what you have, where it’s stored, and when you last used it. This is especially helpful for digital resources or items that might get lost in the shuffle. Review your inventory at the start and end of each semester to ensure you’re not missing anything important. 

By taking the time to organize your speech therapy materials now, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth, stress-free school year. When everything has its place and is easy to find, you can focus on what really matters: helping your students succeed.

Saturday, August 31, 2024

Staying Positive and Energized in the Speech Therapy Room: Practical Tips


Maintaining a positive attitude throughout the school year as a speech therapist working with kids with special needs, such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, deaf or hard of hearing, or those with cognitive challenges, can be both rewarding and demanding. Here’s some advice to help you stay positive and energized: 

1. Celebrate Small Wins

Recognize and celebrate even the smallest progress your students make. These small victories are significant, whether it’s a new sound, a gesture, or an attempt at communication. Keeping a journal of these moments can help you stay motivated. Example: If a non-verbal child with Autism spontaneously uses a picture card to request a snack for the first time, celebrate this achievement! You could create a “Progress Wall” in your therapy room where you post small victories for each student. Seeing this wall grow can be a daily reminder of your impact.

2. Build Strong Relationships

Develop strong connections with your students. Understanding their unique personalities, strengths, and challenges can make your work more meaningful. The bonds you form can be a source of joy and fulfillment. For instance, spend the first few minutes of each session connecting with your students. This could be particularly beneficial for a child with Cerebral Palsy who enjoys music. Starting each session with a short song or rhythm activity can help build rapport and make the child feel more comfortable, setting a positive tone for the therapy session.

3. Practice Self-Care

Prioritize your well-being. Regular breaks, physical activity, and hobbies outside of work are not just essential, but they are a way of showing respect to yourself. Self-care helps you recharge and maintain a positive mindset. Example: Establish a routine that includes daily self-care. This could be a 10-minute walk during lunch, meditation, or a hobby you enjoy, such as reading or painting. Set aside time at least once a week to do something just for yourself, like taking a yoga class or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee.

4. Collaborate with Colleagues

Surround yourself with a supportive team. Share experiences, challenges, and successes with other therapists and educators. Collaboration provides new perspectives and fosters a sense of connection and support, reducing feelings of isolation.  Example: Organize a monthly meeting with other speech therapists and special educators at your school to share strategies, resources, and successes. For instance, if a colleague has found a successful way to engage a child with a hearing impairment, they can share that method with the group.

5. Set Realistic Goals

Understand that progress may be gradual. Setting realistic, achievable goals for your students will help you stay positive and avoid frustration. Remember that every step forward, no matter how small, is progress. Example: Break down larger goals into manageable steps. For a student with cognitive delays, instead of aiming for complete sentence formation immediately, focus first on two-word combinations. Use visual aids like a “Goal Ladder,” where each rung represents a small step toward the ultimate goal, making progress visible and motivating.

6. Stay Flexible and Adaptable

Each day can bring new challenges, and being adaptable is key. Flexibility in your approach will allow you to meet your student’s needs more effectively and reduce stress. Example: If a therapy session isn’t going as planned, be ready to switch gears. For example, if a child with Autism becomes overwhelmed by a task, switch to a sensory activity like playing with a fidget toy or taking a short walk. Being adaptable reduces frustration for both you and the student.

7. Seek Continuous Learning

Engage in professional development to keep your skills sharp and stay inspired. Learning new techniques and approaches can reignite your passion and provide fresh ideas for your practice.   Example: Attend workshops or webinars focused on the specific needs of your students, such as communication strategies for children with hearing loss. Implement one new strategy you’ve learned each month, and track how it affects your students’ progress. Share your findings with your team.

8. Focus on the Bigger Picture

Keep in mind the long-term impact of your work. You are crucial to your students' development, helping them communicate and connect with the world. This perspective can be a powerful motivator. Example: When you feel overwhelmed, remind yourself of the long-term benefits of your work. For instance, helping a child with severe speech delays eventually communicate more effectively can improve social interactions and academic performance. Consider writing a personal mission statement that you can refer to on challenging days.


9. Practice Gratitude

Regularly reflect on the positive aspects of your job. Gratitude for the relationships you build, the progress you witness, and the difference you make can significantly boost your attitude. Example: Start a “Gratitude Journal” where you write down one thing you’re grateful for at the end of each day. It could be a smile from a child, a positive interaction with a parent, or a breakthrough in therapy. Reflecting on these moments helps keep a positive mindset.

10. Know When to Ask for Help

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to seek support, whether it’s through supervision, counseling, or peer support groups. Knowing you have a support system can make a big difference. Example: If you struggle with a particular case, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a more experienced colleague or supervisor. For example, if you’re working with a non-verbal child with severe Autism and feel stuck, reaching out to a specialist for guidance can provide new insights and relieve stress.

11. Keep the Joy Alive

Infuse your sessions with fun and creativity. Whether through games, music, or play, keeping therapy enjoyable for both you and your students can maintain a positive atmosphere. Example: Incorporate fun and creativity into your sessions. If a child loves superheroes, use superhero-themed activities or games to teach speech sounds or vocabulary. For a child who enjoys art, integrate drawing or painting into your therapy to make learning enjoyable. Keeping sessions playful and engaging benefits the child and makes your work more enjoyable.

By staying mindful of these strategies, you can maintain a positive attitude throughout the school year and make a lasting impact on the lives of the children you work with.