Remote Learning Series; SLP @ Home!

Remote Learning Series is Back!

These next few weeks we will be going back to our Remote Learning Series and highlighting the exciting specific department and classroom activities happening to engage students at home and on live sessions!

Our triumphant return begins with guest spots from our two speech-language pathology leads, McCall Reed and Abby Lynch. Continue reading to find out how they are engaging students at home and providing opportunities for growth while remote learning!

Every month the speech-language pathology (SLP) department focuses on a “core word of the month.” Core vocabulary consists of words that are used in 70-90% of our daily interactions that is applicable across all environments. It consists primarily of pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and prepositions. Examples include more, I, you, go, stop, eat, want, on, out, good, bad, etc. 

Given its vast prevalence across environments, this vocabulary is beneficial to both alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) device users as well as individuals whose primary mode of communication is speech because it aids in promoting functional communication as well as early literacy skills.

During remote learning and ESY, the SLP department has focused on providing student specific materials as well as continuing to incorporate the core words “YES” and “NO.” These words are considered critical communication skills in which they allow students to make choices, relay accurate information, and advocate on their behalf to improve their overall well-being. The SLP department has provided resources to families such as ways to naturally target these words during activities of daily living (e.g. watching tv, mealtime, grooming etc.) as well as the fan-favorite BOOM cards! BOOM cards are fun, interactive online activities to help address goals while keeping students engaged. 

Perks of using BOOM Cards!

Teachers and therapists can track and monitor student progress. 

There are a variety of free games/activities. 

It is free for students to make an account. 

BOOM Cards not only addresses speech-language goals but also encompasses a wide range of topics such as reading, math, social studies, etc.

Many of the students at Giant Steps Day School are highly motivated by technology, which helps make the assigned activity seem more like a game rather than work. 

The SLP department cannot wait to continue the core word of the month and incorporate these new resources in their sessions once the students return to the building!

Check out a sample set of BOOM Cards from the link below! 

https://boom.cards/fastplay/qhae