Best start!

Week one: check! You made it!

Now that the kids have got their feet wet and everyone is warming up to the idea, if you want to find out even more about expectations for school readiness in Ontario, check out beststart.org.  They break down the array of skills considered for school readiness, and give great suggestions and information that are helpful and easy to put into practise.  Check it all out HERE. 

It's here!

We hope everyone had a wonderful first day back to school!

Even though summer vacation is over, there is still so much fun to be had.  Remember to check in on the KidsTalk Wellington blog for lots of tips, tricks, and info when it comes to your child's speech and language! 

Worried about school readiness? Take a step back and think of the skills your child is already acquiring and how you are supporting their development every day - with something as simple as play.  

When a child is engaged in play with caregivers and other adults in a warm and responsive relationship, she will develop qualities that will help her succeed in school:

• Strong oral communications skills
• Confidence
• The ability to make friends
• Persistent, creative problem-solving
• Task completion
• Curiosity
• Eagerness to learn.

(Best Start, 2006)

School Readiness: Language and Cognitive Development

Of course they need stylish backpacks, new shoes, and packed lunches.  But what else do your kids need to be ready for school? 

Here you'll find simple descriptions of the importance of language and cognitive development and how to support the development of these skills. 

CMAS - School Readiness: Language and Cognitive Development 

Reading is the answer!

It's coming!  Back-to-school signs, deals and reminders of all kinds are everywhere you turn.  Wondering what you can do to help your kids get ready to go back?  Read, of course!  Check out these great books about other kids going back to school - you can even find some reading suggestions to help ease separation anxiety too! 

Imagination Soup: More Back-to-School Books

Literacy-Building Ideas!

Early literacy skills are the tools children use when learning to read and write.  Building these skills can be one of the most important ways to prepare your child for school.  At a loss for where or how to start?  Check out these fun tips for building the critical 5 early literacy skills - oral language, vocabulary, story comprehension, print knowledge, and sound awareness - with just 5 books! 

The Hanen Centre - Five Books, Five Literacy-Building Ideas!

May is Speech & Hearing Month

Closing the Word Gap

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Researchers at the University of Toronto investigate links between family income, children's vocabulary and academic achievement and cultural factors. How closing the 'word gap' could give poorer kids an equal chance at success

School readiness begins with responsive relationships and stimulatng experiences

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In those early years, before formal education begins, a child's brain development is being influenced by his/her experiences.  The neural connections that are formed prepare a foundation for future learning.  http://www.examiner.com/article/school-readiness-for-children-with-disabilities