Preparing for the new “post-pandemic” return will be a challenge for all of us, kids and grownups included. Imagine for a second the additional challenge it poses for a preschool child learning English as a second language or presenting with a speech and language delay. Help preschoolers better understand the new routine, respect the physical distancing measures and, facilitate this transition by adopting key communication strategies:
Category Archives: Educators / Providers
Social Stories for Going back to Childcare or School
As parents and educators, you might be wondering “How can I support and prepare my child or the children in my program to go back to childcare or school in a COVID-19 climate?”. A social story could be used to teach and familiarize children with new routines and expectations which could reduce anxiety and help keep everyone safe and healthy while at childcare or school. Continue reading
Safe and Secure within Ourselves
SUMMER CHATTING: This summer, start talking and get children ready to succeed!
By Roxane Bélanger, M.O.A., SLP-C, Reg. CALSPO
Speech Language Pathologist, First Words Preschool Speech and Language Program of Ottawa and Renfrew County
We know this: language is the greatest predictor of a child’s success later at school and in life. Children with strong language skills do better with reading. At First Words, one of our key message for parents and educators this summer is to: “Talk to your child. All day. Every day” in order to help children’s language soar. With little set-up, these language activities can help you grow children’s speech and language skills – and get them ready for daycare, school or any post-pandemic routine!
Heavy Work
Heavy work helps to calm or alert the body by stimulating the proprioceptive system. Implementing Heavy Work can decrease challenging behaviours and help the child take initiative by learning what works well for them. Heavy Work is any activity that pushes and pulls the body and places pressure on joints and muscles giving the child input and awareness of where their body begins and ends.
School Age: Starting a Club
We followed AFCS Stittsville as they piloted a clubs curriculum. We interviewed them before and after the launch to see their journey, planning and lessons learned.
Journey Through Inclusion
Navigating a New Country and a Career in Home Child Care
My journey was just beginning, as I got settled in Ottawa, found a school for my eldest and a childcare for my two young ones. I was very fortunate to find a childcare renowned for its services (Andrew Fleck Children’s Services) staffed with highly competent, professional and caring employees. Continue reading
Empathetic Responses
Pina Giovannitti, Behaviour Consultant at Children’s Inclusion Support Services talks about Empathetic Responses and how this strategy can reduce challenging behaviours in your program.
Also see:
Part 1 – Safe and Secure Relationships
Part 3 – Conflict Resolution
Benefits of Special Interest Clubs
We know that each child is unique. They each develop at their own pace. They each have their own strengths and challenges; their own group of friends and interests. It is often boredom that triggers certain behaviors in children. Day after day, children are likely to follow daily routines that require a high level of concentration and self-regulation. In our afterschool program, we want to provide the children with a designated space where they can unwind and be children. The clubs were implemented so that children could choose their own activities based on their interests rather than program leaders (educators) suggesting activities that don’t really interest them. Continue reading
Clubs Tip Sheet
