A Parent's Guide to Child Development

In this episode, Diana Zales explains why nap durations can vary and what parents should observe when their baby wakes. She discusses the difference between fussing and crying and suggests actions for each situation. Sometimes babies simply fuss and may fall back asleep if given a few minutes. She also covers different types of naps, such as contact naps and stroller naps, and explains why having at least one crib nap daily can foster healthy sleep habits. She emphasizes that every baby is unique. If your baby only sleeps while being held or in motion, you’ll find gentle ways to help them transition, and the best approach is to discover what works best for your family.Time Stamps 00:11 When is the best time for your baby to take a nap?00:48 Why does having one nap rule per day improve babies’ sleep patterns in their crib?01:08 Advice for parents whose baby needs to be driven in a car in order to fall asleep.02:18 Why isn't there a secret method for putting a baby to sleep?Contact Diana Zales Website: https://www.zzzsbyzales.com/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/zzzsbyzales/Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode, Andrea Gingras breaks down what strength-based speech therapy is and what it focuses on. According to her explanation, pay attention to the alternative ways that your child may be trying to communicate through eye contact, gestures, and behaviors, such as handing you a toy. Then be a “detective” to decipher what they are trying to communicate to you.” She emphasized the importance of building connections and trust as the foundation for language development and explained the challenges regarding compliance therapy. Timestamps:00:02 What is Strength-based speech therapy?00:29 Why focusing on kids' strengths is more important than compliance therapy.01:03 Why should parents also support their kids' strengths?01:27 Why building trust in therapy matters?Contact Andrea Gingras:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slplovewithoutwords/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slp_mentor4u/Facebook: https://hi-in.facebook.com/people/Love-Without-Words-Speech-Therapy/100088555507551/Website: https://slplovewithoutwords.com/Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode, Bailey Relford discusses how kids’ sensory development begins as early as eight weeks in the womb. Bailey also discusses how important it is for parents, kids, and caregivers to take care of themselves to support their neuroconnection, as vision and hearing are rapidly developing. The first three months after birth are called the “fourth trimester” because development continues at a fast pace and lays early sensory foundations that support kids’ play, motor skills, cognitive learning, and social-emotional skills. These foundations continue to evolve throughout their lives. Bailey also discusses how important it is to create experiences for your child.Time stamps00:22 When do Human’s senses first develop?00:47 Why does human’s touch develop first ?01:00 Why is the 4–5 month stage of development important for your babies? 01:44 What is the fourth trimester?02:00 Why is it important to protect the neonatal experience?02:28 How to support your child’s brain parents development?Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/

In this episode, Guest Melanie Batista explains that parental screen habits during small moments like feeding or playtime can go unnoticed by parents, even though these moments matter. One of the most important aspects of child behavior is that children learn by watching their parents and what's going on in the moment. Melanie explains that our habits create models for our kids, which is essential for parents to keep in mind, and that using screens in these small moments affects children's behavior. Batista also speaks about why parents are addicted to screens and why they need to change their screen habits. She emphasizes the effectiveness of screens, but it is crucial for parents to maintain balance as well. Timestamps00:03 How staring at your phone and packs bonding time with your child?00:26 How your phone habit effects your child’s behavior01:00 How your screen addiction leads to your child’s screen addiction01: 24 Why parents need to change their screen habits?02:27 Why is it important to find a balance between screen use and engaging with your child?Contact Melanie BatistaFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/GrowingLittleBrainsInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/growinglittlebrains/Website:https://growinglittlebrains.com/Email: melanie@growinglittlebrains.comFollow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode, Sarah Schmidt offers tips for parents to practice during story time and highlights the importance of slowing down while reading rather than rushing through the book. The episode emphasizes that slowing down, pointing to pictures, repeating words, and using pauses while reading can significantly impact a child’s language development, as children can quickly observe these actions. Schmidt also encourages parents who already practice these techniques to continue doing so and explains why consistency is the key.Timestamps:00:16 Why is slowing down while reading is the best practice for parents to support their children's language learning skills?00:34 How does parents' emphasis on pointing at pictures or repeating words impact a child's language growth?01:03 Why rereading books build stronger reading skills?01:11 Why is consistently reading with your child the key to their speech growth?Contact Sarah Schmidt:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/foundations_speechtx_llc?igsh=NnQ4NHdkMTZubHE=I'm A Giant Fire Truck: https://publishingconceptsllc.com/product/im-a-giant-fire-truck/?gQT=2Foundations Speech & Language Services: https://foundationsslp.com/Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode, Sholeh Shahinfer discusses why it's more important to embrace how your child communicates than to constantly correct them. It highlights how parents' attempts to correct their child's communication may cause them to miss important moments of connection. It also emphasizes the importance of modeling behavior while respecting the child's current developmental level, rather than expecting specific responses. Honoring how your child behaves and communicates is vital to their speech development and building trust. Timestamps00:07 Why rushing your kids can lead you to miss important moments to build a connection with your child?00:30 Why does the way parents expect their child to communicate hamper their development?00:49 Why is modeling communication important for your child? 01:09 Why parents should not expect their child to respond the way they want them to?Contact Sholeh ShahinferWebsite: www.valuedvoices.comInstagram & Facebook: @valuedvoicesEmail: sholeh@valuedvoices.comPhone: 949-929-9248Shop & Resources: www.valuedvoices.com/shopFollow usFledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.comApp: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight

In this episode, guest Kasha Pyka explains what gross motor delays are, how to monitor progress at home, and why a lack of improvement over 6–8 weeks may signal it’s time to seek support from a therapist. She also discusses how motor development relates to brain development and gross motor patterns, and why early intervention can be highly effective. This is about guidance, not labels — and about trusting your instincts as a parent. The conversation offers a balanced view of how early guidance can enhance both physical and cognitive development.Timestamps00:24 How should parents track gross motor delays in a child?00:56 Why do Gross motor improvements matter more in children than learning new skills?01:10 Understand how gross motor delays relate to a child's cognitive growth.01:55 When should parents seek early intervention for gross motor skill delays? Contact Kasha Pykahttps://www.instagram.com/motormilestonephysio/Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/

In this episode, Celine Moore explains that between 12 and 18 months, parents will notice incredible growth in their child's social, motor, and cognitive abilities. As social cognition develops, curiosity increases, and parents will learn about joint attention. Gross motor skills advance through walking, climbing, and continuous exploration. Fine motor skills also improve as hand-eye coordination strengthens, the pincer grasp becomes more refined, and activities such as scribbling and stacking begin. This lively, active period lays the groundwork for communication, independence, and lifelong learning.Timestamps0:12 What is joint attention?0:42 Gross motor development around 12-18 months?0:52 What are some fine motor milestones at 12-18 months?01:12 Tips to help your child reach fine motor milestones at 12-18 months?Contact Celina MooreWebsite: https://moorehealthykids.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/moorehealthykidsNumber: 561-834-5528Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this podcast, Ashley Karlin discusses how preterm babies can switch between breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, highlighting key positioning and flow rates. She emphasizes growth and development as top priorities and advises when to contact a pediatrician or specialist. The episode reminds families that they are experts on their babies and that support is available at every stage. Whether in the NICU or newly home, this episode aims to reassure and empower you.Timestamps00:20 Why should parents work with their doctor to discuss whether breastfeeding or bottle feeding is best for their preemie?00:36 Preemie baby feeding tips?01:02 Reasons that your premature baby may require both breast and bottle-feedingContact Ashley Karlinhttps://www.familytreeot.com/https://www.instagram.com/familytreeotandlactation/Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode with Gabriele Nicolet, parents will learn what meltdowns look like, especially for neurodivergent kids. It explains that while behavior can be similar across children, the intensity, frequency, and duration of meltdowns vary. Kids with autism and ADHD may have reactions that feel bigger and last longer because of their nervous system responses. It guides parents in understanding their children's behavior by explaining how their nervous systems work and offers strategies for responding to their kids’ reactions with compassion. Timestamps:00:39 How do children with autism and ADHD melt down differently?00:59 Why do neurodivergent children have longer and more intense meltdowns than neurotypical children?01:25 Why do the parents have to pay attention to the kids' nervous system?02:00 How to help neurodivergent children regulate during meltdowns?Contact Gabriele Nicolethttps://www.instagram.com/gabriele_nicolethttps://www.facebook.com/gabriele.nicolethttps://www.gabrielenicolet.comhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/complicated-kids/id1674232166Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.comApp: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflightTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlightLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flightPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/Music: Purple Planet Music

In this episode with Sholeh Shahinfer, parents will learn the key aspects of early language development and the different ways children communicate. You'll understand the importance of repetition, making connections, and acknowledging feelings.Discover why slowing down matters, how honoring a child’s voice builds confidence and trust, and gain a neurodiversity-affirming perspective that shifts the focus from "fixing" to truly understanding your child. Timestamps01:16 Easy ways to support your child’s language development?01: 51 How to make daily routines into language development opportunities for your child?02:41 Why is repetition the key for kids learning to communicate?02:52 Common missed communication opportunities to support your child’s language development? 03:35 Why you shouldn't overcorrect your child?05: 29 Language development tips for new parents?06:30 Why trying to interpret what your child is communicating to you is important to their language development 08: 35 How can parents release the pressure to teach, instead focus on connecting?10:25 Why is spending time with kids enough for parents to communicate ?12:44 Why does narrating everything to your kids help their communication development?15:19 Difference between analytical language processing and Gestalt language processing19:18 Why predictability is good in kids, especially in neodivergent kids?23:59 Why is it important for parents to know about their kids' attention spans?28:11 How does a neurodiversity-affirming approach change how we think about communication development?29:00 Why is it important to honor the way your child is communicating?32:41 What is Echolalia?35:06 Why is it important for your child to feel safe and have their feelings acknowledged to build a connection?36:00 Why do some kids get afraid to participate in conversations because of the punishment?42: 04 Why may applying rules to the neodivergent kids lead to masking and burnout for them?43: 03 What is masking? Contact Sholeh ShaniferWebsite: www.valuedvoices.comInstagram & Facebook: @valuedvoicesEmail: sholeh@valuedvoices.comPhone: 949-929-9248Shop & Resources: www.valuedvoices.com/shopAbout Sholeh ShaniferSholeh Shahinfar is a speech-language pathologist, certified oral-motor therapist, and Founder and CEO of Valued Voices. Since 2009, she has supported children and families using a neurodiversity-affirming, family-centered, and strengths-based approach, helping children connect with their authentic voices. About Annamarie von Firley:After 20 years of owning and running her own fashion house, reVamp, Annamarie von Firley returned to her toy design roots. With a BA in Wooden Toy Design and Construction and a BFA in Furniture Design, she took her knowledge of child development and expertise in play to found Adventuretown Toy Emporium in 2016. About Fledglings' Flight:At Fledglings Flight, we understand that every child is unique and deserves the best opportunities for growth and learning. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of play-based exercises designed for children from birth to age 3. These exercises are carefully curated to stimulate their cognitive, motor, and social-emotional development.With our user-friendly app, parents and caregivers can access a library of engaging exercises that update monthly. You can customize your daily routine by selecting exercises that align with your child's developmental needs. As a Basic Member, you can track your child's milestones and receive insights into their progress. For even more personalized guidance, our Premium Members gain access to a developmental profile.Follow us: Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.comApp: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflightTikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight Music: Purple Planet Music

Parent support plays a crucial role in a child’s progress outside of therapy sessions. In this episode, we explain why continuing to work with your child at home is essential to the skills a child has been taught in therapy. A child's progress can only happen when therapists and families work together as a team, and consistency with plans is also important. Learn practical examples of how everyday communication and consistency can help skills truly stick and support your child's long-term success.Time Stamps00:09 Why do you need to work with your child in between therapy sessions?00:44 Why your family needs to adjust to accommodate your child's therapy?01:10 Why is practicing with kids after breathing therapy essential?Contact Luba Patlakh Kaplunhttps://kidologyinc.com/http://instagram.com/lubalovehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lubapatlakhhttps://www.instagram.com/kidologyinc/?hl=enhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-growth-lab-podcast/id1803243333Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.comApp : https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight

Feeding a child is one of the earliest and most important aspects of infant development. In this episode with Melissa Murphy and Chandler Edge, you will learn what typical feeding looks like from birth through six months, including skin-to-skin contact, feeding frequency, and the transition to solids. You’ll learn how different types of reflexes, such as rooting, sucking, and palmar grasp, support early feeding development. The episode also discusses why feeding can look different from baby to baby and which variations are still considered normal. This podcast will help parents and caregivers better understand feeding milestones, how to support children's development, and the importance of reflexes in feeding.Time stamps: 00:17. When is the best time to begin skin-to-skin feeding with your baby?00:28 What does feeding look like after a week for newborns?00:37 How is feeding your baby different when they are 2 to 3 weeks old?00:59 What does feeding a six-month-old look like?01:35 How do different types of reflexes help in feeding development?Follow us: Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight

This episode with Elizabeth McGuire explains why parents should focus on teaching their kids a second language when they are young, if they have a fluent speaker in their household, because it's easier for the child. Early brains are more flexible and naturally absorb sounds, words, and grammar without much effort. It also explains why waiting until ages 7 or 8 can make language learning harder, as the brain becomes more set in its language processing.Parents will learn that starting early is great, and one thing they should remember is using the language with perfect grammar, which helps children build strong language skills naturally and confidently.Time Stamps:00:11 When is it time to introduce your child to a second language?00:40 When does it get harder to teach a child a second language?01:06 Tips on which language you should expose your child first?Contact Elizabeth McGuire Babble Better: https://babblebetter.com/Instagram: / babblebetterFollow usFledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight

In this episode with Vanessa Fox, you will learn how to identify fight, flight, and freeze responses in your child as they happen and understand that these behaviors are stress responses. It also explains how a child’s nervous system responds to everyday challenges such as transitions or limits, and why these moments can feel overwhelming to children. Most importantly, it underscores the need to help parents recognize a child's body cues rather than their behavior, and to respond accordingly to help the child respond more calmly. Timestamps 00:41 What happens when a kid is in a freeze moment?01:01 How do kids react when they are in a flight moment?01:21 When can you identify that a child is in a fight moment?01:42 How does a kid's nervous system feel when a parent responds to their behavior?Contact Venessa FoxInstagram:  / vanessafoxot  Website: https://www.developeducatenurture.com/Phone: 813-448-2858 Email: vanessa@developeducatenurture.com

In this episode with Gabrielle Rose, explains what Ayurvedic medicine is and how it focuses on overall healing, beyond birth and postpartum care. It also explains how Ayurveda works across the body’s systems to identify problems, such as those in the digestive system. The podcast further explains how Ayurveda focuses on nutrition, daily routines, and gentle practices that support overall well-being. However, it also discusses examples of Ayurvedic practices, such as restrictions on eating meat, that are not applicable in modern times, since meat is an essential dietary source. Overall, it describes how Ayurveda helps care for both mother and baby by addressing root causes rather than symptoms.Time stamps:00:07 What is Ayurveda?00:21 What does Ayurvedic medical practice focus on?00:38 What kind of problems does Ayurvedic practice look at?01:37 Why are some Ayurvedic practices may not applicable to the diet in modern times?Contact Gabrielle Rose TikTok & Instagram: @thewholeisticdoula Nurturing New Beginnings Course:https://nurturingnewbeginnings.thinki...

In this podcast episode with Dr. Sara Muršić, you will learn how common toys and household objects, such as electric candles, can harm children. It highlights injuries that can result from certain types of toy batteries, including choking, and explains how certain age groups can hurt themselves because of the risks some toys pose. In addition to choking, button batteries and small magnets found in light-up toys, remotes, and household decor can cause severe injuries if swallowed. In this podcast, you will learn tips on how to be aware of the things that can really hurt your child, how to prevent these dangers, and how to use battery compartments with screws and keep unsafe items out of children’s reach.Time Stamps00:16 What are some injury risks for 5-year-old kids due to small objects?00:45 How can you check the toy's size to ensure it's safe for your children?01:21 Why are small button batteries and magnet toys dangerous for kids?01:58 Tips to prevent the dangers of battery toys?02:07 How important is it to keep household objects out of kids' reach? Contact Dr. Sara Muršić:Website: www.toyscope.orgInstagram: @toy.scopeFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/ToyScope/61571729882938/YouTube: @ToyScopeUKFollow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflightMusic: Purple Planet Music

In this podcast, parents will learn how shame can hinder a child’s emotional growth and why it is important to understand the difference between shame and guilt. It explains how shame can overwhelm a child’s mind, leading to negative feelings like anger, low self-esteem, and silence, and discusses how trauma can intensify these reactions.Time stamps:00:20 What does shame mean?00:35 What kinds of negative emotions result from shame?01:05 Why is it important to know if your child feels shame?01:27 What happens when children experience shame?01:56 What is the main difference between shame and guilt?Contact:Dr. Sarah Mundy: / parenting_through_stories Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: / fledglingsflight TikTok: / fledglings.flight Facebook: / fledglingsflight LinkedIn: / fledglings-flight Pinterest: / fledglingsflight Music: Purple Planet Music

🔥 Your child melting down? Try THIS.Physical play isn’t just fun — it’s their SECRET brain reset button! 🧠⚡From jumping like a kangaroo to “pillow mountain,” these quick movement tricks help kids regulate FAST.➡️ Parents, try these today and thank me later! 💛Timestamps:0:08 Cognitive Play Activities0:37 Physical Play ActivitiesAbout Donna: Donna Kleyman is a pediatric Doctor of Physical Therapy with extensive experience working in homes, outpatient clinics, daycares, and preschool classrooms. As a dedicated mom of two kids, a dog, and a snail, she understands the challenges of early childhood development and works to make it more joyful and fulfilling. Donna empowers and educates families to encourage movement and establish physical routines from a young age, like diaper days. Her holistic approach of getting bodies moving and brains growing through intentional movement and physical play ensures that children receive the attention they need to thrive and foster healthy habits that last a lifetime. Ways of contact:Email: playpro@growandgopt.comWebsite: https://www.growandgopt.comAbout Annamarie von Firley:After 20 years of owning and running her own fashion house, reVamp, Annamarie von Firley returned to her toy design roots. With a BA in Wooden Toy Design and Construction and a BFA in Furniture Design, she took her knowledge of child development and expertise in play to found Adventuretown Toy Emporium in 2016. About Fledglings' Flight:At Fledglings Flight, we understand that every child is unique and deserves the best opportunities for growth and learning. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of play-based exercises specifically designed for children from birth to 3 years of age. These exercises are carefully curated to stimulate their cognitive, motor, and social-emotional development.With our user-friendly app, parents and caregivers have access to a library of engaging exercises that change monthly. You can customize your daily routine by selecting exercises that align with your child's developmental needs. As a Basic Member, you can track your child's milestones and receive insights into their progress. For even more personalized guidance, our Premium Members gain access to a developmental profile.Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/

Building Language through Connections: What Parents Need to KnowDiscover powerful, connection-based strategies for building language skills in non-speaking children with Autism or genetic conditions in this insightful episode of "A Parent's Guide to Child Development."Host Annamarie von Firley of Fledglings' Flight welcomes guest expert Andrea Gingras, Speech-Language Pathologist, who specializes in innovative, strength-based communication therapies.In this episode, Andrea shares her transformative approach: instead of traditional compliance-based techniques where children earn rewards after completing tasks, Andrea recommends rewarding children first by joining them in activities they naturally enjoy. Through this meaningful interaction, adults model descriptive language, reflecting the child's thoughts and experiences—such as, "I am rolling dough. The dough is sticky. The dough has stuck to my fingers."This method empowers gestalt language learners by demonstrating how speech can authentically represent their real-world experiences, leading to improved communication and deeper connections.Timestamps:0:06 Why is connection important0:21 Interests matter0:30 Building engagement = Comfortability1:09 When does communication happen?About Andrea Gingras: Andrea Gingras, M.A., CCC-SLP, has been a licensed Speech Language Pathologist for over 18 years. In 2003, she received her bachelors degree in Psychology with a concentration in Linguistics from Oakland University in Michigan. She continued on to Michigan State University and received her masters degree in Communication Disorders, in 2006. Andrea specializes in working with the pediatric population, specifically ages 18 months to 7 years of age. She has extensive training in using a strength-based approach and implementing gestalt language processing principles when working with autistic children. She is now the owner of Love Without Words Speech Therapy located in Concord, CA. She offers in-home services to regional center birth- 3 clients and private pay clients. She uses a strengths-based approach for all children, incorporating sensory and engagement into all sessions. Contact Andrea Gingras:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slplovewithoutwords/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slp_mentor4u/Facebook: https://hi-in.facebook.com/people/Love-Without-Words-Speech-Therapy/100088555507551/Website: https://slplovewithoutwords.com/About Annamarie von Firley:After 20 years of owning and running her own fashion house, reVamp, Annamarie von Firley returned to her toy design roots. With a BA in Wooden Toy Design and Construction and a BFA in Furniture Design, she took her knowledge of child development and expertise in play to found Adventuretown Toy Emporium in 2016. About Fledglings' Flight:At Fledglings Flight, we understand that every child is unique and deserves the best opportunities for growth and learning. That's why we offer a comprehensive range of play-based exercises specifically designed for children from birth to 3 years of age. These exercises are carefully curated to stimulate their cognitive, motor, and social-emotional development.With our user-friendly app, parents and caregivers have access to a library of engaging exercises that change monthly. You can customize your daily routine by selecting exercises that align with your child's developmental needs. As a Basic Member, you can track your child's milestones and receive insights into their progress. For even more personalized guidance, our Premium Members gain access to a developmental profile.Follow us:Fledglings’ Flight: https://www.FledglingsFlight.com/ App: https://app.FledglingsFlight.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fledglingsflight/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Fledglings.FlightFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/FledglingsFlight/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/fledglings-flight/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/fledglingsflight/