Big vs. Little and Features: Using Descriptive Words to Build Language in Children with Autism
Discover how teaching big vs. little with real objects—like stuffed animals—can build early language and thinking skills in kids with autism. Learn simple ways to teach descriptive words like stripes, tails, and colors to help your child understand and communicate more effectively. Use what you already have at home—books, toys, and stuffed animals—to turn everyday […]
How to Help a Late Talker
Early Intervention Matters: Identifying whether your child’s speech delay might indicate autism, ADHD, or another developmental challenge is crucial. Being a late talker means beginning assessments right away. Begin with tools like the Barbera Early Childhood Assessment™ (BECA) to evaluate key developmental areas such as self-care, language, and behavior. Understanding Language Use: Monitor not just […]
How to Teach a Nonverbal Child to Start Talking
Dr. Mary Barbera emphasizes a holistic approach to speech development in children with autism or speech delays, assessing not only speech but also behavior, feeding, social skills, and more to gain a complete picture of a child’s abilities. Her Barbera Early Childhood Assessment (BECA) provides a quick, effective way to understand a child’s developmental stage […]
Understanding Gestalt Language Processing: A Guide for Parents and Professionals
Dr. Mary Barbera highlights three common mistakes with teaching pronouns: introducing pronouns too early, using turn-taking pronouns like “my turn” and “your turn” with minimal language skills, and starting with receptive pronouns instead of expressive ones.
2 Year Old Not Talking? How to Support Speech Development
Dr. Mary Barbera discusses speech development in two-year-olds. You’ll learn the crucial milestones children should meet at this age and what to do if a 2-year-old isn’t talking. Dr. Barbera emphasizes the significance of considering expressive and receptive language skills, highlighting the impact of prematurity on developmental delays.