In today's conversation, we dig into the real scope of speech-language therapy and why it's so much more than articulation drills—especially for homeschool families. We break down how feeding, reading, memory, and even a child's ability to follow instructions are deeply connected to language and brain development. We'll look at how challenges sometimes show up as frustrating behaviors, or why a seemingly "simple" reading delay doesn't always have a simple solution. This matters in homeschool settings because so much of what we do—teaching, supporting, noticing the little shifts in our kids—relies on understanding what's really going on underneath. When we get clearer on how language, sensory input, and cognitive processes all interact, we become better equipped to notice when our child needs extra support and when the right kind of challenge can open new doors. By the end of this episode, you'll have a sharper lens for spotting the early signs that language might need a different kind of help—and more confidence interpreting what you're seeing day-to-day. In this episode you'll hear about: What is Speech Therapy?Public perception: speech therapy as addressing only RsThe broader scope of speech language pathologyTraditional vs. modern speech therapy rolesAreas addressed: feeding/swallowing, infant to end-of-life, picky eating, choking risksVoice quality, professional voice users, resonance issues, cleft palates, hearing impairmentsConnection to the brain: stuttering, cluttering, rhythm disorders, phonological/phonemic awareness, executive functioning, literacyAuditory Processing and Language ComprehensionAuditory processing disorder (APD)—definition and signsHow APD can look like bad behaviorBreakdowns in auditory processing: signal transmission, brain processing of sound, acoustic profileRole of brain in sorting/organizing soundsVisual approaches aiding sound discriminationConnection to dyslexiaDifficulty with sound discrimination and memory in relation to language learningExamples of syntax and organization issues ("word salad")Multisensory Approaches and Sensory IntegrationUsing visual, auditory, and other senses to aid language developmentLinks between feeding skills, play, and language milestonesThe Connection Between Language and LearningHomeschool perspective: when to seek help vs. home interventionReading interventions (Barton, OG), when they're not enough, need for underlying cognitive/linguistic supportSigns that additional intervention is needed beyond curriculumDefining Technical TermsProcessing: definitions and what is meant in language/sound contextLink to handwriting, other learning skills (motor control, processing ideas)Support and Teamwork in HomeschoolingImportance of external support—SLPs as "buddies"Effects of language on other academic areas—math, comprehension Links and Resources From Today's Show Make sure to join our OT INsiders Membership Waitlist HereWhy Should I Seek Occupational Therapy?Connect with Sarah Collins on IGThe Homeschool OT Teachers Pay TeachersConnect With Amanda On IGAmanda's Website Check Out Our Title Sponsor LoveveryLearning RX WebsiteEpisode 2: Decoding Behavior in homeschooling- sensory overwhelm, emotional control, perseveranceEpisode 4: The Evolving Landscape of Homeschool Community SupportEpisode 9: The Impact of Music on Executive Functioning: A Homeschooling PerspectiveEpisode 11: Exploring Unique Learning Paths in Homeschooling with Guest Amy Bodkin Episode 17: Neuro Affirming Homeschool Environments with Keisha Berry Episode 33: Dyslexia Demystified: Marianne Sunderland's Approach and Homeschooling TipsEpisode 34: Hyperlexia Uncovered: Navigating Challenges and Developing StrengthsEpisode 35: Connecting Speech, Phonemic Awareness, and Literacy: Sydney Bessard Explains it All Episode 43: Collaborative Problem-Solving in Education and Parenting Episode 62: 62 Strategies for Enhancing Cognitive Skills in Children Episode 64: Understanding Auditory Processing Disorder: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Support for Families Episode 83: How Working Memory Shapes Literacy: Practical Tips to support the missing link between executive functioning and reading Episode 94: Understanding and Building Working Memory at Home: An OT Perspective Thank you to our title sponsor for this episode, Lovevery. You can check out their products and resources here. Connect With Our Guest, Amanda Owens Amanda Owens, CCC-SLP equips homeschool parents so they can teach their children how to talk clearly and confidently through speech therapy at home. A homeschool graduate and mom, she builds practical tools for parents, teaches how speech therapy works, and supports a growing community of parents.
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Jun 25 202643 mins
34 mins