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2.12.2012

Preschool Speech & Language {Stacey’s Corner}

Alexander and Reese have been lucky beyond belief to find such a supportive community of talented educators. It has made all the difference, and we can't thank you enough!

One way to give back is by passing along what I have learned from the experts to you.

Alexander’s speech and language pathologist has agreed to publish her monthly newsletters on the blog so you too can enjoy the tips and tricks of teaching language, the language your preschooler should be expected to know and use, also any other ideas she has to pass along. 

Thanks Stacey!



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Preschool Speech & Language Monthly Newsletter – February

February Preschool Age Vocabulary

- Valentine - heart - mail - Mailman – groundhog - Valentine’s Day - Cupid - love - arrow - shadow

- Deliver - Chocolate - Librarian - President’s Day- President - Nurse - Dentist – Community

Ideas for Language at Home – Language Through Cooking

Cooking is a great activity to do with your children—you spend time together, make something delicious, and have fun! As well, cooking can help children learn and practice many skills. When helping your children learn to cook, pick simple recipes with just a few steps and a few ingredients at first. Then progress to more complex recipes with more steps and more ingredients. If your children cannot read yet, read the recipe to them and have them repeat the ingredients and steps back to you. And…be creative with cooking! Besides food, you can make fun things like homemade clay or soap. Creating your own “special recipe” is another fun idea. Here are some things children can learn from cooking:

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- Language skills – When cooking, children must understand certain vocabulary. They need to know vocabulary for cooking tools like oven, mixer, and whisk. Flavors—salty, sweet, bitter, etc.—and textures—sticky, gooey, melted, etc. are also important to know.

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- Math skills – Math is a very important cooking skill. Children need to know numbers and counting in order to measure and add ingredients. They must be familiar with measurements like teaspoon, liter, and “a pinch.”

- Critical-thinking skills – Recipes provide opportunities for children to practice skills like following directions, sequencing, and recalling details.

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- Fine-motor skills – When cooking, children manipulate (move with their hands) different ingredients and cooking tools. Getting supplies out of the pantry, mixing ingredients, and placing toppings are examples of fine-motor skills to practice in the kitchen.

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- Healthy-living skills – Cooking healthy foods (so are cookies out?) is important for your children’s growth and development. As you cook together, you can teach your children about the Food Groups, good nutrition, and the importance of physical activity combined with a healthy diet.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

J Stacey Bernasconi, Speech-Language Pathologist

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