Lara engages in a heartfelt conversation with Alison, a retired speech and language therapist with extensive experience working with children facing speech and language difficulties. Alison shares her insights on the unique communication paths of children, emphasizing the importance of empowering parents to foster their child's communication skills through play and interaction. The discussion highlights practical techniques for parents, such as the significance of non-verbal communication, the joy of engaging in simple activities, and the concept of "intensive interaction." Alison also introduces the PALM approach—Pause, Analyse, Listen, Model—as a valuable tool for enhancing communication. Throughout the episode, the emotional connection between parents and children is underscored, reminding listeners that every child has their own unique gifts and that finding joy in the journey is essential for both parents and their children.

Empower Parents: Parents play a crucial role in their child's communication development. They should be encouraged to engage with their children through play and everyday interactions, as they possess the skills needed to support their child's growth.

Focus on Non-Verbal Communication: Communication begins long before children can speak. Non-verbal cues, such as eye contact, turn-taking, and physical interaction, are essential for building a foundation for language development.

Utilise Everyday Opportunities: Parents can create language-rich environments by incorporating everyday activities into learning. Simple actions like picking up objects during a walk can provide opportunities for labeling, counting, and engaging in conversation.

Practice the PALM Technique: The PALM acronym (Pause, Analyse, Listen, Model) encourages parents to slow down and observe their child's communication attempts. This approach helps in understanding the child's needs and modeling appropriate responses.

"It's so important to always work with the carers... the main therapists, the main carers are the people who will see their children develop their communication skills." - Alison

"All behaviours, whether they're seen as negative behaviours... they're all forms of communication." - Alison

"Sometimes we talk too much... we just need to pause sometimes." - Alison

"I can guarantee that they will communicate. And that was a really good starting point." - Alison

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HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.