Speech Therapy

Visual supports make language more accessible by using pictures, symbols, and written words, especially for autistic children, those with speech delays, or slower processing. Visuals are processed faster, stay visible for review, and can aid speech development without replacing spoken language. Effective tools include First‑Then boards, choice boards, core word boards, visual schedules, environmental labeling, paired gestures/signs, and timers. To succeed, keep visuals accessible, use them daily across settings, pair them with spoken words, allow response time, model interactions, update them regularly, and maintain consistency. At TumbleNDots, visuals are integrated into play and daily routines, combining occupational and speech strategies to boost confidence, reduce communication barriers, and grow with the child.

Does your child frequently repeat lines from TV shows, songs, or conversations? Instead of seeing this as “just echolalia,” it may actually be Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)—a completely natural way some children, especially autistic children, develop speech.

At Tumble N’ Dots, we embrace a child-led, neurodiverse-affirming approach to speech therapy, recognizing that language doesn’t always start with single words. Many children first learn in “chunks” or scripts, which they later break down and rebuild into their own sentences.

Understanding how your child naturally acquires language is the key to supporting them. By modeling simple, flexible speech, responding with validation, and respecting their communication style, we help children progress at their own pace toward self-generated, meaningful language.

It’s natural to wonder if your child is on track—especially when it feels like every toddler on the playground is already speaking in full sentences. But every child develops at their own pace, and there’s a wide range of what’s considered “typical.” In this blog, the team at Tumble N’ Dots walks you through key language milestones, red flags to watch for, and how to decide if it’s time to reach out for professional support. You’re not alone—and early help can make a big difference.

When a child has trouble expressing themselves, it’s easy to assume it’s a “speech delay”—but the root issue might actually be language-based. At Tumble N’ Dots, we help parents understand the key difference: speech is how sounds are formed and words are spoken, while language is the system we use to express and understand meaning. Knowing the distinction helps families get the right support early. In this post, we break down the basics and explain how our therapists tailor care to meet each child’s unique needs—whether it’s speech, language, or both.

You don’t need flashcards or fancy apps to help your child’s language skills flourish—what they need most is you. In this post, our team at Tumble N’ Dots shares practical, therapist-backed tips that turn daily routines into rich opportunities for language learning. From mealtimes to storytime, discover how to support your child’s communication in a way that feels natural, playful, and empowering.

Does your child frequently repeat lines from TV shows, songs, or conversations? Instead of seeing this as “just echolalia,” it may actually be Gestalt Language Processing (GLP)—a completely natural way some children, especially autistic children, develop speech.

At Tumble N’ Dots, we embrace a child-led, neurodiverse-affirming approach to speech therapy, recognizing that language doesn’t always start with single words. Many children first learn in “chunks” or scripts, which they later break down and rebuild into their own sentences.

Understanding how your child naturally acquires language is the key to supporting them. By modeling simple, flexible speech, responding with validation, and respecting their communication style, we help children progress at their own pace toward self-generated, meaningful language.