This episode focuses on top sleep tips for SLPs. The topic of sleep has a strong connection to the work that SLPs do, because being well-rested can support us in navigating complex clinical issues and managing stressful situations. The episode includes research-based tips from sleep scientists and experts, but it is not medical advice. The first part of the episode explores the importance of having a consistent sleep schedule and going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. Next, the episode covers sleep tips that are applicable for both children and adults, with a focus on developing a nightly wind-down routine. The episode then moves into a discussion about maximizing light exposure in the morning, and minimizing light exposure in the evening. Next, the episode talks about the importance of getting out of bed if you’re struggling to sleep. This tip comes from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia, which is an effective insomnia treatment. The final section of the episode addresses the connection between anxiety and insomnia. One strategy in this area is to spend some time before bed writing down sources of stress and anxiety.

This episode is about what SLPs need to know about reading comprehension. It begins by acknowledging that SLPs have a large scope of practice, and that they are not typically seen as the primary professionals who work on reading comprehension, especially in the school setting. It invites SLPs to make slight adjustments to their practice to ensure that students get the best support possible. The episode then emphasizes the idea that reading is an umbrella term composed of many sub-skills. It then moves into an overview of widely accepted reading models, including the Simple View of Reading, Scarborough’s Reading Rope, and the Active View of Reading. Strategies and suggestions are woven through the discussion of each model. The final segment of the episode highlights important considerations related to reading comprehension for student populations that may be particularly relevant to SLPs. The episode closes with a reminder of the role that reading comprehension plays in many aspects of our lives.

This episode is about sensory strategies for speech therapy sessions. It opens with an acknowledgement that OTs are the primary sensory experts, and offers resources for reviewing sensory basics. The episode then discusses the difference between being “sensory-defensive” and “sensory-seeking,” reviews the sensory system, and then moves into a discussion of strategies to support students with sensory differences or a diagnosis of sensory processing disorder. These strategies come from SLP and researcher Celeste Roseberry-McKibbin. The first strategy is addressing students’ physical comfort, the second strategy is including movement in speech therapy sessions, and the third strategy is supporting students during transition times. The episode then discusses the connections between interoception and emotions, and offers three strategies to help students begin to notice and understand these connections in their own bodies. These strategies come from occupational therapist Kelly Mahler, and they are objective labeling, “I wonder” statements, and descriptive language.