Fostering Futures℠

Anne Smolenski, M.S., CCC-SLP, currently works at CAHELP as a Program Specialist in Communication Disorders. She received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Speech Pathology and Audiology from California State University, Sacramento, and her Master of Science Degree in Clinical Speech-Language Pathology from Northern Arizona University. Anne has worked as a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) since 2019, specializing in preschool populations with a diverse range of communication needs.

In this episode of Fostering Futures, we sit down with Anne as she shares her passion for speech and language development and discusses effective strategies for fostering communication in children.

🔑 Highlights & Takeaways:

• Sibling Influence and Early Assessment: Discussing how younger siblings may model delays and why early assessment can make a difference.
• Practical Strategies to Build Communication: Anne introduces engaging, everyday strategies to support language growth, beginning with the power of book reading.
• Using the CARE Acronym During Story Time: Learn how to enhance book reading through Comments, Asking questions, Responding, and Extending conversation.
• Building Language Through Daily Routines: How simple conversations during meals, errands, or play can boost communication and social-emotional skills.
• Avoid the Word “Say”: A Powerful Shift: Anne explains why modeling language instead of prompting with “say” can make a big difference in natural communication.
• The Role of Caregivers in Therapy Outcomes: Insights into how caregiver involvement enhances speech therapy results and builds stronger child-caregiver connections.
• The Impact of Screen Time on Language Development: Candid conversation about screen use, its risks for young learners, and how to set healthy boundaries with tech.
• Using Screens Wisely: Audio Over Video: Tips for leveraging audio-only content and encouraging interaction instead of passive viewing.
• Final Thoughts: Face-to-Face Interaction Matters: Anne emphasizes the importance of comments over questions and offers examples of “self-talk” and “parallel talk.”
• Supporting Bilingual Families: Reassuring guidance for multilingual households, including tips on code-switching and choosing the right language to speak at home.

Listeners will leave with actionable insights for cultivating meaningful, everyday communication - starting with one simple truth: connection comes first.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram | www.cahelp.org | [email protected]

Crystal Aden has been an Occupational Therapist for over ten years. She started her education locally at Victor Valley College (VVC) before then transferring to Loma Linda University where she obtained her Bachelor’s degree and Master of Occupational Therapy. She is a Nationally Board-Certified Occupational Therapist and is licensed to practice in multiple states. As an Occupational Therapist, she has worked for Desert Mountain Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) for over ten years serving special needs children in the schools while supporting districts, educators, and parents. 

In this episode of Fostering Futures, host Athena Cordero sits down with Crystal to explore pediatric pelvic health and the gentle, developmentally supportive approach of potty learning.

🔑 Highlights & Takeaways:

• Potty learning vs. potty training: Potty learning embraces the child’s natural development and pace, in contrast to the rigid, goal-oriented nature of traditional training.
• Understanding the pelvic floor: Crystal explains how this often-overlooked set of muscles plays a vital role in bladder, bowel, and reproductive health—and why everyone should understand it.
• Developmental readiness: Children typically aren’t physically or neurologically ready to begin potty learning until around age three.
• Common myths debunked: Early potty success isn’t always beneficial, and poop and pee challenges are deeply interconnected—poop drives the pee.
• Constipation first: Constipation is often at the root of potty issues. Hydration, nutrition, and awareness—not just laxatives—are key.
• Parental mindset shift: Move away from competition and unrealistic expectations; support and patience lead to more positive outcomes.

“Pee and poo don’t have to be taboo!” Crystal encourages families and educators to approach pelvic health with openness and curiosity.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, caregivers, and educators looking to support children with compassion and evidence-based practices.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram | www.cahelp.org | [email protected]

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram | www.cahelp.org | [email protected]

Fostering Futures℠ is a podcast that brings you high-quality, research-based content designed to inspire and educate. Each episode is crafted with care, drawing on the knowledge of credible experts, parents, and community members to ensure both trustworthiness and depth.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram | www.cahelp.org | [email protected]