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  • 264 When Communication Is Hard: Downs Syndrome, Genetic Syndromes, Learning Differences, part 7

    264 When Communication Is Hard: Downs Syndrome, Genetic Syndromes, Learning Differences, part 7
    2026/05/02

    Hey Friends~

    In this episode, we’re talking about communication in children with Down syndrome, genetic syndromes, and learning differences. I’ll share how cognition, memory, and learning style shape language development—and why repetition, consistency, and strength-based support make such a difference. This is about meeting kids where they are and building communication step by step.

    Always cheering you on!

    Dinalynn

    CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

    WEBSITE: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/

    Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play

    IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

    253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

    254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

    255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3

    257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4

    259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

    262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC, part 6

    WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!

    Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play

    Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play

    To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

    To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    26 分
  • 263 Tamara Tuckson & Mckenzie Tuckson: Does AAC Replace Their Voice—or Reveal It?

    263 Tamara Tuckson & Mckenzie Tuckson: Does AAC Replace Their Voice—or Reveal It?
    2026/04/24
    Hey Friends~ “We never limit how she communicates—we grow with her in how she communicates.” ~Tamara Tuckson In this episode, a mom and daughter share their journey with AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Many parents feel unsure or even afraid of AAC, but this conversation gently reveals how it can uncover who a child truly is when their body makes speech difficult. You’ll hear real-life communication—including McKenzie voice talking to us with her AAC device—as this family invites us into their world. You will hear the growth, how low tech and high tech are both used - still. Enjoy this empowering story that is sure to open your mind—and your heart—to new possibilities. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com WEBSITE: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play PLEASE VOTE!! We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!! This is a VOTER’S CHOICE AWARD. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY : LIFESTYLE PODCASTS https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards ABOUT THE GUEST: Tamara and Mckenzie Tuckson are advocates, two time authors, and the founder of Mission 2 Advocate. Her journey began when her daughter, McKenzie, was diagnosed with Rett Syndrome at age two. What started as fear turned into purpose. Today, McKenzie is a thriving young adult, student leader, varsity cheerleader, and national trailblazer for inclusion—using AAC to advocate for teens with exceptional needs. Together, Tamara and McKenzie share their lived experience to educate, empower, and amplify voices in the disability community, proving that every person belongs and every voice matters. CONTACT THE GUEST: mission2advocate@gmail.com Mission2advocate.com Tamara’s Business on IG; #mission2advocate Facebook: #mckenziecantalk IG: #Mckenziespeaks21 YouTube Videos: https://youtu.be/mv8nSJbml8c?si=0SthwUOlHiEl4-Qs. .https://youtu.be/uZCuurWR2pc?si=OgaTXRDMPh4pCV0G. https://youtu.be/vcqGd6KrwqE?si=wyiLroHEMhWla6pY IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2 257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5 262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC, part 6 WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU! Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    50 分
  • 262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC

    262 When Communication Is Hard: Does the Body Need Support? CP, Low Tone, AAC
    2026/04/17

    Hey Friends~

    When the body works harder, communication often does too. In this episode, we’re talking about communication challenges related to low muscle tone, cerebral palsy, and AAC which stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication

    We’ll look at how effort, fatigue, and positioning impact speech and more importantly, you will hear 3 stories how AAC supported functional communication for kids that did not have spoken communication. Then come back next week so you can hear from a Mom along with her daughter who uses AAC.

    Always cheering you on!

    Dinalynn

    CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

    WEBSITE: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/

    Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play

    PLEASE VOTE!! We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!!

    This is a VOTER’S CHOICE AWARD. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY : LIFESTYLE PODCASTS https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards

    IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

    253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

    254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

    255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3

    257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4

    259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

    WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!

    Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play

    Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play

    To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

    To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    32 分
  • 261 Jan Talen: Struggling Kids, Stressed Marriage. Where Do You Start?

    261 Jan Talen: Struggling Kids, Stressed Marriage. Where Do You Start?
    2026/04/10

    Hey Friends~

    We are in the middle of the series “When Communication is hard” to discuss a topic that is just as important and impacts our kids. That is—the strength of the parent relationship itself. Today’s conversation with Jan shifts the focus to how, when parents grow in connection and calm, it creates a foundation that helps even the most challenging behaviors begin to settle.

    What if the key to calmer kids isn’t another parenting technique, but strengthening your relationship as a couple? Jan and I explore how to choose what’s both nice and necessary in stressful moments so connection isn’t lost when tension rises, and why putting the parent relationship first actually helps children feel more secure. You’ll hear simple ways to walk yourself through overwhelming moments so your calm and logic can “hold” your emotions, allowing you to respond with clarity instead of frustration. And throughout it all, we come back to gratitude, growth, and celebration—because when you begin to shift, even in small ways, your child often follows.

    Always cheering you on!

    Dinalynn

    CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

    Website: https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/

    Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play

    PLEASE VOTE!! We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!!

    This is a VOTER’S CHOICE AWARD. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY : LIFESTYLE PODCASTS https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards

    ABOUT THE GUEST: Married with kids can be a marriage wrecker. Jan knows it doesn’t have to be that way. Using her marriage and family knowledge and skills, she developed the pathway for new parents to stay together while parenting their kiddos and keeping their marriage relationship strong. She practiced this (with Chip) within their own marriage and family of 4 kids. The D of divorce was squashed. Their marriage and family turned into one filled with the A’s of appreciation and adoration. Being connected, communicating well and resolving confusion and conflicts is doable and even enjoyable while moving from Family Crazy to Family Calm with the DNA Way to Communicate.

    CONTACT THE GUEST: Jan@usandkids.com

    www.UsAndKids.com

    https://instagram.com/Usandkids

    https://www.facebook.com/usandkidspodcast

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/jantalen

    Bonus link will come in an email

    IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

    257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4

    259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

    260 Melissa Schulz: Have A Strong-Willed, Highly Sensitive, or Neurodiverse Child?

    WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!

    Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play

    Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play

    To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

    To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    40 分
  • 260 Melissa Schulz: Have A Strong-Willed, Highly Sensitive, or Neurodiverse Child?

    260 Melissa Schulz: Have A Strong-Willed, Highly Sensitive, or Neurodiverse Child?
    2026/04/02

    Hey Friends~

    In the last episode, part 5, we talked about ADHD, ASD and processing difficulties. In this episode we support that learning as we listen to a mom and coach talk about parenting some of these kids who are strong-willed, highly sensitive, and neurodiverse. Our conversation is full of examples of turning daily struggles into calmer, more connected moments.

    So if you have a child that pushes your buttons or can be difficult, you will feel empowered after listening to this episode.

    NEWS!! We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!! This is a listener-vote award. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY of LIFESTYLE https://www.womenpodcasters.com/language-of-play

    Always cheering you on!

    Dinalynn

    CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

    CHECKOUT THE WEBSITE! https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/

    Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play

    ABOUT THE GUEST: Melissa Schulz, MS, BCBA, is a parenting coach and behavior analyst who helps parents of strong-willed, highly sensitive, and neurodiverse kids turn daily struggles into calmer, more connected moments using her proven processes. Melissa has been recognized as the "Best Parenting Coach in the United States for 2025" by Evergreen Awards.

    CONTACT THE GUEST:

    www.melissaschulz.com

    www.facebook.com/confidentlymommin

    www.instagram.com/confidentlymommin

    Free e-guide "How to Get Kids to Listen" : https://www.melissaschulz.com/free-guide

    IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

    53 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

    254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

    255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3

    257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

    WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!

    Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play

    Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play

    To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

    To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    32 分
  • 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5

    259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5
    2026/03/26

    Hey Friends~

    If communication with your child feels confusing, exhausting, or like you’re missing something important, this episode is for you.

    Today we’re talking about language processing differences in ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder) along with processing differences associated with Auditory processing, Language processing, and Sensory processing.

    If listening feels hard, behavior gets in the way, or conversations fall apart quickly, this episode will help you see communication through a new lens. We’ll connect regulation, attention, and language, and talk about how lowering pressure often opens the door to better communication.

    This is about helping you see what’s really going on… so you can respond in ways that truly help your child.

    Always cheering you on!

    Dinalynn

    CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com

    VISIT MY WEBSITE! https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/

    Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play

    IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES:

    189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills

    253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

    254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

    255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3

    257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4

    WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU!

    Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play

    Follow & subscribe in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play

    To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

    To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    29 分
  • 258 Need Funding For Speech Therapy? Podcasthon Charity Highlight: Small Steps in Speech with Amanda Berardi

    258 Need Funding For Speech Therapy? Podcasthon Charity Highlight: Small Steps in Speech with Amanda Berardi
    2026/03/19
    Hey Friends~ *SPECIAL EPISODE* Podcasthon Highlighted Charity: Small Steps in Speech with Amanda Charney-Berardi. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional who’s ever worried about a child being misunderstood… if you’ve wondered whether listening, play, and connection really matter as much as we say they do… or if you believe that every child deserves support—not just the lucky ones—then this episode is for you. Today’s conversation is part of Podcasthon, a worldwide charity event where thousands of podcasts come together during one week to release special episodes in support of causes that matter deeply to them. I chose to highlight Small Steps in Speech, a nonprofit that helps fund speech and language services for children—because helping kids find their voice is at the very heart of what I believe, and how I believe change actually happens. Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com Comment? Question? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play Work with Dinalynn. Let’s talk: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session ABOUT THE GUEST: Amanda Charney-Berardi is the founder of the nonprofit organization Small Steps in Speech, which she established in 2009 after the tragic loss of her fiancé, SSG Marc Small, a United States Army Special Forces soldier. Marc believed deeply in her career as a Speech-Language Pathologist and often served as her “guinea pig” for lessons and practice evaluations. After receiving the heartbreaking news of Marc’s passing, Amanda founded the organization in his honor. ABOUT THE NON-PROFIT: Small Steps in Speech has granted more than $2 million to children across all 50 states, continuing Marc’s legacy. The organization provides children and their families the gift of improved communication through support such as speech therapy, AAC devices, parent–child PROMPT and apraxia therapy, hippotherapy, and other services that help children develop their voices. CONTACT THE GUEST/NON-PROFIT: https://www.smallstepsinspeech.org/ Free Speech Therapy: info@smallstepsinspeech.org To donate: https://www.smallstepsinspeech.org/donate social media page: https://www.facebook.com/smallstepsinspeech/ Instagram: Venmo for Donations: ABOUT THE GLOBAL INITIATIVE: PODCASTHON is a global nonprofit initiative where podcasters unite for a coordinated charity campaign each year. During a designated week, thousands of podcasts release a special episode highlighting a nonprofit or cause they care about, using the power of podcasting to raise awareness and inspire support worldwide. https://podcasthon.org/ IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO LAST YEAR’S NON-PROFIT! 206 Jeremiah Program: Disrupting Poverty Two Generations At A Time A PODCASTHON SPECIAL FAMILY RESOURCE: Financial Freedom 101: with Penelope Jane Smith Build simple, family-friendly money systems at the Financial Freedom 101 Virtual Event. To learn more or reserve a spot, you can find the details here: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/scholarship/dinalynn YOUR NEXT STEPS with The Language Of Play 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 “Play is…” downloadable: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662 Newsletter Sign up: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW, SPONSOR, DONATE: Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Subscribe & Follow in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play
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    31 分
  • 257 When Communication is Hard: Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays, DLD

    257 When Communication is Hard: Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays, DLD
    2026/03/12
    Hey Friends~ “My child understands everything but doesn’t talk much.” “My child talks, but I can’t always tell what they mean.” If those worries sound familiar, this episode is for you! This is Episode 4 in the series When Communication Is Hard, and today we’re exploring expressive and receptive language delays. We’ll untangle what these differences look like so you can better understand what’s happening in your child’s communication, and how everyday moments can become powerful opportunities for language growth. And of course, you’ll walk away with strategies you can start using today - so grab your pen and paper… and let’s get started! Always cheering you on! Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn: hello@thelanguageofplay.com COMMENT? QUESTION? Leave a voice message! https://castfeedback.com/play WORK WITH Dinalynn: Let’s talk: https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session YOUR NEXT STEPS: 5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 “Play is…” downloadable: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662 Newsletter Sign up: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at hello@thelanguageofplay.com SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW, SPONSOR, DONATE: Love this podcast? Let us know! https://lovethepodcast.com/play Subscribe & Follow in 1-click! https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here: https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play OTHER EPISODES IN THIS SERIES: 253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1 254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2 255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3 189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills Other Resources: Free this week: the Lucky Find Bundle through March 17. https://bit.ly/luckyfindbundle “When Behavior Is Communication: 21 Days to Feel More Steady” — my reflection journal for parents who want to move from pressure and self-doubt toward curiosity, confidence, and calm - is available inside the bundle. Financial Freedom 101: with Penelope Jane Smith Build simple, family-friendly money systems at the Financial Freedom 101 Virtual Event. To learn more or reserve a spot, you can find the details here: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/scholarship/dinalynn Podapalooza: https://dinalynn--checkingout.thrivecart.com/podapalooza/ Have you ever wanted to learn about podcasting? Attend a podcasting event? Be interviewed on a podcast? This event is for you!
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    46 分