Spring Cleaning Your Speech Skills: Fun Seasonal Activities for Kids

Spring has officially sprung, which means it’s time for some good old-fashioned spring cleaning—but we’re not talking about scrubbing floors! At Speech & Swallowing Specialists of KC, we believe spring is the perfect time to “clean up” speech skills with engaging, seasonal activities that help kids grow their communication abilities. Whether you’re looking for speech therapy in Kansas City or just fun ways to practice at home, these ideas will have your little one blooming with progress!

1. Scavenger Hunt Sounds

Take advantage of the warmer weather with a speech-focused scavenger hunt! Make a list of items for your child to find, each featuring a target speech sound (e.g., “r” for rock, “s” for sun, “t” for tree). As they search, have them say the words out loud and use them in a sentence. This is a great way to work on articulation while exploring the outdoors!

2. Garden of Growing Vocabulary

Spring is all about new beginnings, so why not plant the seeds of vocabulary growth? Have your child help in the garden or pretend to plant flowers while learning new words related to nature. A speech pathologist in Kansas City might use this activity to encourage descriptive language, categories (flowers, bugs, tools), and even sequencing (first we dig, then we plant, then we water).

3. Bubble Blowing for Breath Support

Blowing bubbles isn’t just a springtime favorite—it’s also fantastic for speech and oral motor development! Blowing bubbles helps strengthen breath control, which is key for clear speech. Plus, popping bubbles while practicing simple words like “pop,” “big,” and “up” is a fun way to engage little ones in communication.

4. Picnic & Conversation Starters

Plan a picnic in the park and bring along some conversation starter cards. Ask open-ended questions like, “What’s your favorite thing about spring?” or “If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?” This is a great way to build expressive language, social skills, and turn-taking in conversation. Need extra support? A speech evaluation near you could help determine if your child would benefit from speech therapy services.

5. Storytelling with Sidewalk Chalk

Turn your driveway into a storytelling masterpiece! Have your child draw a springtime scene and then tell a story about what’s happening in the picture. This encourages narrative skills, sequencing, and creativity—all essential components of strong communication.

Let’s Get Talking This Spring!

Spring is a season of growth, and with a little creativity, it can also be a season of speech and language development! If you’re looking for speech therapy in Kansas City to support your child’s communication journey, our team at Speech & Swallowing Specialists of KC is here to help. Whether it’s through a fun activity or a speech evaluation near you, we’re committed to helping kids shine in every season. 🌸✨

When to Seek Autism Diagnostics: Signs and the Home-Based Advantage

Early autism diagnostics can open doors to support! If you're searching for an autism test or expert guidance, CHAT KC and our specialists are here to help. #SpeechTherapyInKC #SwallowingClinicNearMe

If you're wondering whether your child—or a loved one—might benefit from an autism test, you're not alone. Many families begin their journey with questions about communication, social skills, and behavior. Early identification of autism can open doors to support, resources, and therapy that make a lasting difference. But when should you seek an evaluation, and what are the benefits of home-based assessments? Let’s explore the key signs of autism and why an at-home diagnostic approach might be the right fit for your family.

Recognizing the Signs of Autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) presents differently for every individual, but there are common signs that may indicate the need for an evaluation. These include:

• Delayed Speech and Language Development – Limited verbal communication, a lack of babbling as an infant, or difficulty forming words and sentences.

• Social Challenges – Difficulty making eye contact, responding to their name, or engaging in back-and-forth interactions.

• Repetitive Behaviors – Hand-flapping, rocking, or repeating phrases (echolalia).

• Sensory Sensitivities – Over- or under-reacting to sounds, textures, lights, or movement.

• Restricted Interests – Strong attachment to specific topics, objects, or routines with resistance to change.

• Feeding and Swallowing Difficulties – Some individuals with autism experience feeding aversions or difficulties that require specialized intervention from a swallowing clinic nearby.

If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to seek an autism test through a qualified provider.

The Home-Based Advantage: Comfort & Accuracy

While many families seek evaluations in clinical settings, a home-based approach—like the services offered by CHAT KC—can provide a more accurate and comfortable diagnostic experience. Here’s why:

• Familiar Environment: Children and adults often display their most natural behaviors at home, leading to a more accurate assessment.

• Reduced Anxiety: Traditional clinic settings can be overwhelming, especially for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

• Family Involvement: A home-based assessment allows caregivers to actively participate in the process, providing real-life insights into strengths and challenges.

• Tailored Recommendations: With an understanding of home dynamics, specialists can provide more personalized strategies to support communication and daily life skills.

The Next Step: Finding the Right Support

If you suspect autism, early intervention is key. Families across Kansas City, including Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, Olathe, Kansas City Northland, and surrounding areas can access top-tier services at CHAT KC, where we provide comprehensive evaluations and access to the best pediatric speech therapy and intervention programs.

At Speech & Swallowing Specialists of KC, our expert team connects families with the best speech therapists in KC to support communication and feeding needs, whether for children or adults. We offer evidence-based interventions to enhance speech clarity, social skills, and swallowing function. If you’re searching for speech therapy in KC, our specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.

Building Language, One Card at a Time – Looking for the best pediatric speech therapy in Overland Park, Olathe, or Lee’s Summit? Our team provides personalized strategies to support your child’s communication journey! #BestSpeechTherapistsInKC

Don’t Wait—Schedule an Evaluation Today!

If you’ve been searching for answers, now is the time to take action. Seeking an autism test can be the first step in unlocking support and services tailored to your loved one's needs. Contact CHAT KC by visiting www.autismtestkc.com today to schedule an assessment and explore the home-based advantage in autism diagnostics.

Need additional therapy support? Find the best speech therapy and swallowing clinic near you with Speech & Swallowing Specialists of KC—helping families thrive across the Kansas City Northland, Overland Park, Lee’s Summit, and Olathe areas. Reach out today to learn more!

Unlocking Success: How Strong Professional Communication Skills Boost Your Career and Income

In today’s fast-paced business world, excellent communication isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re negotiating a deal, presenting to stakeholders, or leading a team, how you communicate can directly impact your career trajectory, your income, and your ability to close deals. In fact, research suggests that professionals with strong communication skills earn up to 10% more than their peers and are promoted more frequently. If you're looking to sharpen your skills, professional communication coaching in Kansas City could be the key to standing out in your industry.

Confident communication = career elevation! 💼📢 Take your presentation skills to the next level with professional communication coaching right here in Kansas City!

The Financial Impact of Strong Communication

Studies show that effective communicators bring in more revenue. According to a McKinsey report, businesses that prioritize communication can see productivity increase by 25%. If you’re in sales, marketing, or client-facing roles, clear and persuasive messaging can significantly improve conversions. In fact, a Harvard Business Review study found that top sales professionals spend 60% more time crafting their communication strategies than their less successful peers.

Translation? Investing in a professional communication class near you could be one of the smartest career moves you make.

Communication and Workplace Culture

Beyond dollars and cents, strong communication fosters a positive work environment. Poor communication is one of the top reasons for workplace stress and disengagement. A Gallup survey found that teams with high communication effectiveness experience a 21% increase in productivity and engagement.

A communication coach in KC can help professionals learn strategies to navigate workplace dynamics, improve leadership skills, and build a team culture where employees feel heard and valued. This isn’t just about talking more—it’s about talking effectively.

Tips for Better Professional Communication

If you’re ready to elevate your communication skills, here are some quick tips:

Own the room, own your success! A professional communication class can turn nerves into confidence and ideas into impact.

- Be concise: Time is money, and being clear and direct in emails, presentations, and meetings can improve efficiency.

- Listen actively: Great communicators listen just as much as they speak. Show understanding by summarizing key points and asking thoughtful questions.

- Master nonverbal cues: Over 70% of communication is nonverbal. Good eye contact, posture, and tone can enhance your message.

- Adapt to your audience: Whether you’re speaking to a CEO or a new team member, tailor your message accordingly.

- Seek feedback: The best communicators are always refining their skills. Ask for input and look for a professional communication teacher near your area for expert guidance.

Great communication isn’t just about talking—it’s about connecting! Strong skills lead to better teamwork, higher conversions, and a more positive workplace. Start communication coaching to level up today!

Take the Next Step: Professional Communication Coaching

If you’re in Kansas City and looking for a professional communication teacher, you’re in luck! Our professional communication coaching services provide personalized strategies to help professionals across industries improve their confidence, clarity, and influence. Whether you need one-on-one coaching, a professional communication class, or training for your team, we’re here to help.

Ready to take control of your success? Find a communication coach near you today and watch your career—and income—grow!