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Let's Talk About Super Special Kids & Cake
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Let's Talk About Super Special Kids & Cake

Author: Dr. Donia Fahim & Professor Rhea Paul | Specializing in Speech & Language T

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Welcome to Let's Talk About Super Special Kids and Cake the podcast for parents of children with special needs. During each Podcast Professor Rhea Paul Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim cover a topic of interest to parents and families of children with Special needs. They also answer questions sent to them by one of their listeners and they share their thoughts on some common misconceptions about interventions for children with special developmental delays and neurodevelopmental difficulties. Both Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia love cake! The eating cake for breakfast segment is all about the fun activities you can do at home with your super special kids. So make yourself a cup of tea, grab yourself a piece of cake, relax and enjoy the theme music composed by the New York Musician Marty Isenberg. This podcast was recorded live from the studios of Sacred Heart University in Fairfield Connecticut and is brought to you by our book Let's Talk: Navigating Communication Services and Supports for Your Young Child with ASD published by Paul H Brooks and available from Amazon.

Dr. Donia Fahim, Ph.D., Cert. MRCSLT (U.K.), A.K.A Auntie Donia, is a speech and language pathologist, an international educational consultant, and specializes in the treatment of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and in development of curriculum and interventions for young children with special needs in countries with limited services. She is now based in London, and is the founder and director of Education and Therapeutic Spaces, Ltd. She lived in NYC for ten years (2008-2018) where she was a Consultant for the ASD Nest Project at New York University, and a Professor at Hunter College, where she was also Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Special Education Program from 2008 to 2013. She was also the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Autism Friendly Spaces, Inc. (2010-2018) and developer of the first dual language ASD public school program in New York City. She is the co-author the books Let's Talk with Professor Rhea Paul and she has authored several peer reviewed journals and chapters. She obtained her B.Sc., M.A and Ph.D. from the University of London. She is a certified member of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists.

Professor Rhea Paul, PhD., CCC-SLP: Rhea Paul, Ph.D., CCC-SLP, (AKA Granny Rhea) is Professor and Founding Chair of the Speech-Language Pathology Department at Sacred Heart University, author of over 100 refereed articles, 50 book chapters and 9 books. She serves as Editor for Language at the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research. She received the Editor's Award from the American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology in 1996, and the Ritvo/Slifka Award for Innovative Clinical Research from the International Society for Autism Research. She has been a Fellow of ASHA since 1991, and received Honors of the Association in 2014.
20 Episodes
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Let's Talk About Super Special Kids & Cake! Season 3: Episode 2 Late talkers and Autistic Toddlers   In this episode Auntie Donia and Granny Rhea discuss was how to determine if a toddler who is not talking is autistic or simply a late talker. · Autistic toddlers often show unusual sensory interests, rigidity/need for control, and reduced social interest compared to late talkers. · Late talkers typically have age-appropriate social skills and play, but limited vocalizations and babbling. · Getting a comprehensive assessment, including an ADOS evaluation, is important to make an accurate diagnosis. Auntie Donia and Granny Rhea discuss the process of getting an assessment and early intervention services for toddlers with speech/language delays or suspected autism: · In the US, children under 3 are entitled to an assessment through the local school system. · In the UK, there are often long waitlists, but families can seek support from charities in the meantime. · The assessment involves observations by a multi-disciplinary team and an interview with parents to get a full picture of the child's development. Auntie Donia and Granny Rhea discuss tips for how parents can support language learning at home for late-talking toddlers, even before formal intervention: · Narrate and comment on the child's play and daily routines, using a variety of vocabulary. · Incorporate songs, fingerplays, and "people games" that encourage interaction and imitation. · Allow wait time for the child to respond, and interpret any attempts at communication positively. · These strategies can benefit both late talkers and children with autism
Gestalt language processing (GLP) with guest Dr. Tiffany Hutchins.   Episode One: with Dr Donia Fahim, Professor Rhea Paul and Professor Tiffany Hutchins Rhea Paul introduces Dr. Tiffany Hutchins, an expert in cognitive science and social cognition, who has published an article examining the pros, cons, and implications of Gestalt-based therapies and natural language acquisition-based therapies for children with autism. The group is eager to hear Dr. Hutchins' perspectives on these theories and therapies. Dr. Hutchins explains that as a speech-language therapist and researcher, she became interested in examining Gestalt language processing (GLP) and natural language acquisition (NLA) theories when they gained popularity a few years ago, as her students and colleagues had many questions about the claims and evidence surrounding these approaches. Dr. Hutchins discusses how delayed echolalia can predict language growth in young autistic children, but argues that echolalia is not the direct cause of language gains. Rather, echolalia can be a useful communicative strategy that supports language development, but is not necessary for advancing language skills. Dr. Hutchins outlines several challenges to the GLP and NLA theories, including the circular logic in defining GLP, the lack of evidence supporting the claim that autistic individuals are "Gestalt language processors", and the stage-based model of language development proposed by NLA, which is not supported by research on gradual language growth. Dr. Hutchins reviews the specific therapy recommendations that flow from the NLA stage model, such as using long, unanalyzed utterances and avoiding single words and verbs. She argues that these recommendations are not supported by evidence and are unlikely to effectively support language development in autistic children. Dr. Hutchins concludes by acknowledging some positive aspects of NLA, such as increased awareness of the communicative value of echolalia. However, she emphasizes the need to move beyond the flawed GLP and NLA theories and explore other evidence-based approaches, such as conversation analysis, to better support language development in autistic
In this first podcast of Season 2, Dr. Donia Fahim and Professor Rhea Paul talk about Assessment. What should you expect from your child's assessment and who will carry it out? Before, during and after: How to prepare yourself and your child, what happens during the appointment, and what can you expect following the assessment. They'll answer a question about what is meant by verbal and non-verbal abilities in psychological assessments and discuss the language we use when talking about people with disabilities. Finally, in the 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia urge you to have fun with your super special child in everyday ways: Jump in puddles, walk barefoot on the grass or squidge your toes in the sand. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
Join Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) in today's podcast as they talk about transitioning through school and how to support your child through the significant changes this brings. They answer a question on why cognitively typical children might struggle academically at school. In 'Things that make us go aargh' they discuss hyper-focus on developmental differences and the importance of remembering that all children are different and develop at different times, but this doesn't mean that there is an underlying diagnosis to find. And how to have fun making home-made audio books with favourite story books from your own home. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
Following on from the last podcast discussion around transitioning through school, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) discuss transitioning beyond school, what happens after your child leaves full time education and how to support your young adult's strengths, interests and independence. They talk about disfluency and how to support your verbal child with Autism who stutters or stammers. Stereotypical expectations about children with Autism is the focus of what makes them go 'aargh' today, while fun but functional craft is the topic in the Eating Cake for Breakfast segment. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
Girls and Autism

Girls and Autism

2020-07-3128:53

Join Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) in a conversation about Girls and Autism: the parallels, similarities, and differences in how girls and boys present with Autism. The Super Special Question in this podcast prompts discussion and explanation about selective mutism. Stereotyping toys by gender, particularly for Super Special Kids, is what makes them go 'aargh' today and in the Eating Cake for Breakfast segment, the focus is classic games - treasure hunt; duck, duck, goose; hide and seek, simple, fun games that can be played anywhere. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) are joined today by special guest and AAC Specialist, Susan Berkowitz to discuss AAC, the different systems available and how to identify the best system for your child. Listen to Susan Berkowitz explain why misconception that using a high tech AAC system is going to 'fix' your child's Autism makes her go 'aargh' and in the Eating Cake for Breakfast segment, the trio discuss fun activities using an AAC system. Connect with Suzan Berkowitz SusanBerkowitz.net Facebook Pinterest Instagram Twitter Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com Twitter: @DoniaF Instagram: @drdoniafahim @EducationandTherapeuticSpaces 
In today's episode, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim] discuss Apraxia, a speech difficulty which affects coordination and planning in the production of speech sounds. They answer a question about how to assess whether your child needs speech intervention. What makes them go aargh today, is the assumption that oral motor strength activities will, on their own, support a child's speech development. T he value of water play is the subject of today's Eating Cake for Breakfast segment, not only is it wonderful, accessible, sensory fun but it is also a huge source of many educational opportunities. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com Twitter: @DoniaF Instagram: @drdoniafahim @EducationandTherapeuticSpaces 
In today's episode, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) discuss Bilingualism and Super Special Kids. They answer a question about the challenges of travelling with a super special child. What makes them go 'aargh' is when professionals tell bilingual parents that they should focus on one language with their child. During the Eating Cake for Breakfast segment, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia discuss digital assistance and the use of AI devices and software such as Siri and Alexa. Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com Twitter: @DoniaF Instagram: @drdoniafahim @EducationandTherapeuticSpaces 
In today's episode, Granny Rhea and Auntie Donia (Professor Rhea Paul and Dr Donia Fahim) are joined by special guest Sean Sweeney, a Certified SLP with a specialist background in Instructional Technology who, amongst other things, is the author of the SpeechTechie Blog. The Super Special topic is Apps for Super Special Kids and the question today is how do parents select developmentally appropriate apps? Using screen time unnecessarily is what makes Sean Sweeney go 'aargh' and, in the Eating Cake for Breakfast segment, what else but Apps for fun – making movies! Connect with Sean Sweeney SpeechTechie.com Facebook Twitter Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com Twitter: @DoniaF Instagram: @drdoniafahim @EducationandTherapeuticSpaces 
In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss the importance of living in the 'now' and casting our worries for the future aside. They'll answer a question about what a speech and language therapist is and the work that they do. They'll also tell you about the things that make them go 'arghhh', as well as talking about the importance of spending quality time with your special child in the super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
002: The Big Screen

002: The Big Screen

2018-12-1020:46

In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss screen time. Is it good? Is it bad? They discuss it all. They'll also answer a question about what to do when your special child is naughty. Extreme parents are the focal point of things that make them go 'arghhh' this week and routines are explored in the super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss words that therapists use and how parents can better understand them. They give advice on what parents can do when their child tantrums in public. They discuss restrictive diets and the effects of these in the things that make us go 'arghhh' and the beauty of public spaces in the super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
004: The A Team

004: The A Team

2018-12-1025:26

In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss the development of positive relationships with professionals who work with your child. They give advice on what to do when a child carries out the same repetitive activity. Forcing a child to make eye contact is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and nature is the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
005: The Chosen Ones

005: The Chosen Ones

2018-12-1025:50

In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss speech sounds and when they develop. They give advice on what to do if your special child becomes upset around unfamiliar faces. Unhelpful advice that others give parents of special children is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and the great outdoors is the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.     Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss food and how it relates to special children. They give advice on what to do if your special child is unresponsive when called. Special children not being included in the traditional classroom setting is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and the joys of cooking are discussed in this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
007: Play Dates

007: Play Dates

2018-12-1017:47

In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss the importance of having fun with our special child at home. They give advice on the best approach to set up play dates with other children. Giving children false choices is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and everyday outings are the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.     Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
008: Follow My Lead

008: Follow My Lead

2018-12-1025:40

In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss inclusion. They give advice on what to do when your child engages in preservatives play. Speaking about a special child in their presence is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and Libraries are the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.     Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim discuss siblings. They give advice on what to do when your child doesn't want to greet people like relatives and friends properly. Judgement cast upon parents of special children is what makes them go 'arghhh' this week and musical instruments are the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.     Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
In today's episode, Professor Rhea Paul and Dr. Donia Fahim are joined by fellow Speech and Language Pathologist Christi Kaplain. They discuss adolescence with special needs. They answer a question on the difference between augmentative, alternative and facilitated communication. What makes them go 'arghhh' this week is inadequate AAC and video games - these are the focus of this week's super fun 'Eating Cake for Breakfast' segment.   Learn More & Stay Connected To learn more about international educational consultant & autism expert, Dr. Donia Fahim, visit Doniafahim.com
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