Blogs

May 20
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Young girl doing a Speech Pathology assessment in speech therapy clinic in Bondi Junction and Mascot

What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?

By | Speech Pathology

What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS)? Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS) is a neurological motor speech disorder. Children with CAS have problems saying sounds, syllables, and words. This is not because of muscle weakness or paralysis. The brain has problems planning to move the body parts (e.g., lips, jaw, tongue) needed for speech. The child knows what they want to say, but their brain has difficulty coordinating the muscle movements necessary to say those words. In other words, the child knows what they want to say, but their brain has trouble making the muscle movements in their jaw, tongue,…

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May 17
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Speech Pathology homework with Speech Pathologist in Bondi Junction and Mascot

What is a lisp and what does Speech Pathology do?

By | Speech Pathology

Parents often ring our Bondi Junction and Mascot clinics to seek a Speech Pathology assessment for a lisp. A lisp usually occurs when children have difficulty producing the ‘s’ and ‘z’ sounds, and sometimes the ‘sh’, ‘ch’ and ‘zh’ sounds. These sounds are tricky, and require more complex oral movements. If you are concerned that your child may have a lisp, then here are a few things that you should know. There is more than one type of lisp: Interdental: This occurs when a child is saying the ‘s’ and ‘z’ sounds with their tongue coming forward between their teeth….

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May 14
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signs of autism in preschooler in ESDM session in Bondi, Mascot and Randwick

ESDM and sensory issues

By | Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

Sensory issues in autism are very challenging. They challenge the child, parents, teachers and therapists. The sensory responses interfere with a child’s ability to learn. The Early Start Denver Model, ESDM, uses specific techniques to address the sensory issues of children with autism. WHAT ARE SENSORY PROBLEMS? Young children with autism frequently have sensory issues. It is part of the diagnosis criteria for autism. We describe some children as ‘under responsive’. Theses children often appear passive and lethargic. Other children are  described as ‘over responsive’. They children are more active and restless. Some children can be a bit of both….

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May 11
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Certified ESDM Therapist doing an early intervention session with young child with autism in Sydney

What is a certified ESDM Therapist?

By | Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

What is a Certified ESDM Therapist? A Certified ESDM Therapist is a professional trained to deliver the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) to fidelity. This means they can implement the ESDM accurately and effectively, ensuring the best outcomes for children with autism. Training and Certification Process To become certified, therapists must complete all levels of the ESDM training. After the initial training, they undergo 6-12 months of intensive training to meet ESDM fidelity expectations. This period involves: Submitting Videos: Therapists submit a series of videos demonstrating their ability to deliver the ESDM accurately. Writing Individualised Programs: They must prove they…

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May 08
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Boy sitting with his dad and the boy is a picky eater

Why Children are Picky Eaters

By | Feeding Therapy

Why Are Children Picky Eaters? Understanding the Causes and Solutions If you’re a parent dealing with a picky eater, you’re not alone. Many families face the challenge of getting their children to eat a balanced diet. Understanding why children are picky eaters can help you develop strategies to encourage healthier eating habits. In this blog, we’ll explore the various reasons behind picky eating and offer some tips to address this common issue. Developmental Stages and Natural Preferences The Toddler Phase Picky eating often begins in toddlerhood, a period when children are naturally exploring their environment and asserting their independence. During…

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May 05
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Group of children doing intensive group social skills in Early Start Denver Model ESDM intervention for young children with autism in Sydney.

ESDM social skills groups

By | Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

Supporting Social Skills Development in Preschool Parents are keen to see their child’s social skills emerge at the playground, during play dates, and in preschool. However, the preschool environment can be more challenging for children. Learning social skills with a therapist does not automatically ensure that a child can socialize more effectively in preschool. So, how do we support children in their Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) sessions? How do we teach them to interact with peers and make friends at preschool? This is where ESDM social skills groups become an essential part of a child’s program. What is an…

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May 02
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How AAc complements ESDM therapy in Bondi junction, Mascot and Randwick

ESDM therapy and AAC

By | Early Start Denver Model (ESDM)

Unlocking Communication: AAC for Children with Autism and the Power of ESDM As a parent or educator of a child with autism, you know that communication can be one of the most challenging aspects of their development. You might have tried numerous strategies, feeling the frustration of limited progress. But there’s a beacon of hope that has proven to be a game-changer: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Paired with the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) therapy, AAC can transform the way children with autism communicate and engage with the world. Let’s explore how these powerful tools can unlock your child’s…

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