Now, ye might be wonderin’, “Why in the seven seas should we bother teachin’ alternatives to ‘I don’t know’?”

I’ll tell ye why! Ye see, when a wee lad or lass be faced with a question they don’t have the answer to, their knee-jerk reaction be to blurt out them dreaded words. But fear not, me hearties. There be a treasure trove of alternatives just waitin’ to be discovered!

Picture this: ye be standin’ at the helm of yer classroom ship, askin’ a question to yer crew of eager learners. Instead of hearin’ the usual chorus of “I don’t know,” ye be greeted with a myriad of creative responses. From “Could you show me where to find it?” to “I’m not sure how to explain it,” these alternatives be like little nuggets of gold. They are buried beneath the surface of uncertainty.

But why, ye ask, should we be teachin’ these alternatives?

Well, me fellow speech pathologists and teachers, let me tell ye. Our students probably don’t think about how to ask for help when answering a teacher’s question.  And they may have difficulty finding the words on their own.

By encouragin’ our students to explore different ways of expressin’ their lack of knowledge, we be empowerin’ them to take control of their learnin’ journey. No longer will they feel like they be stranded on a desert island of confusion!  You, their fearless navigator, will be able to give them better guidance. You will aid them on their treasure hunt for knowledge.

Now, ye may be thinkin’, “But how do we go about teachin’ these alternatives?”

Fear not, me hearties, for I’ve got just the solution for ye! Introducin’ our very own Treasure Clues for Learning Google slideshow! (Also available in print at Amazon or 10% off in my Webstore!) This be a treasure map filled with 15 slides of plunderous knowledge. It comes complete with 10 alternatives to “I don’t know”. The book gives some good ol’ fashioned reasonin’ on why to use ’em. It be like havin’ yer very own parrot squawkin’ helpful phrases right in yer ear!

I might even go so far as to suggest making a classroom chart of these phrases, to help students remember them.  Have a class brainstorm what other phrases they might use!  Give your students more power over their learning journey.

Or sign up below for a FREE poster and other exclusive freebies.

So, me fellow educators and speech pathologists, let’s hoist the Jolly Roger and set sail for a classroom where “I don’t know” be a thing of the past! With a little bit of pre-teaching, ye’ll be navigatin’ the seas of learnin’ with ease and flair. Yo ho ho and a bottle of rum, let’s make learnin’ an adventure worth rememberin’! ?‍☠️??

Happy sailin’,

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This May, National Speech-Language-Hearing Month (formerly Better Speech-Language and Hearing Month), offers a chance to celebrate the incredible work of SLPs (Speech-Language Pathologists) and the impact we have on individuals with communication disorders and differences. This year, however, I want to focus on something different: the power of representation in literature. I strongly believe it’s important to highlight inclusive characters that reflect the realities of those with communication disorders.

The Need for Diverse Characters:

As an SLP with over 24 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of seeing yourself reflected in the world around you. Unfortunately, for children and adults with communication disorders, this representation is often lacking. Many books portray characters with communication challenges as one-dimensional figures defined solely by their stutter or inability to speak. These negative portrayals can leave individuals with disorders or differences feeling poorly about themselves and their struggles.

This National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, I felt compelled to contribute to a more inclusive narrative. That’s why I poured my experience and passion into writing a book that empowers authors to create characters with communication disorders who are genuine, relatable, and multifaceted.

Sparking Inclusive Storytelling:

The inspiration for “Unspoken Volumes” came from countless interactions with my clients. Over the years, I’ve been inspired by the brilliance, humor, and resilience of people grappling with various communication challenges. However, they aren’t simply defined by their communication disorders – they are artists, athletes, dreamers, and everything in between. These human beings deserve to see reflections of their complexities in the stories they cherish.

A Shocking Lack of Representation:

Consider these staggering statistics:

• 1 in 10: Number of children who are impacted by a communication disorder at some point during childhood.¹
• 2 million: Adults in the U.S. who currently are affected by aphasia alone.²
• 1%: Percentage of Americans who stutter.³

Despite these numbers, why are we not seeing a more statistically accurate representation in literature?

Tellingly, my personal reading experience reveals characters who are misrepresented or stereotypical, sometimes living in isolation due to a lack of exploration of treatment or alternative communication options. It’s a sadly common trope – the tragic silent protagonist, not limited to The Little Mermaid!

Beyond the Book: A Collaboration for Authenticity

Undoubtedly, my hope is that this book fosters a collaborative effort between SLPs and literary creators. By working together, we can ensure that characters with communication disorders are portrayed accurately and respectfully. The book delves into the vast spectrum of communication disorders, offering practical strategies for authors to portray those who struggle with communication difficulties or differences with empathy and hope.

This collaboration allows children and adults to not only see themselves reflected but also develop empathy and understanding for others who communicate differently.

A Shared Journey of Empowerment

While I’m excited to share this book with the world, the core message goes beyond promotion. This is about advocating for inclusive storytelling and the profound impact it has on people with communication disorders. National Speech-Language-Hearing Month is a time to celebrate our profession, but it’s also a time to reflect on how we can empower the next generation.

Without a doubt, this journey is about more than just a book – it’s about creating a world where every human feels seen, valued, and empowered by the stories they encounter. That means we have to stop hiding communication disorders, and fully explore them as much as we would any other personal challenge a character might face. We need more inclusive characters with communication disorders.

Join the Conversation!

Check out Bridging the Gap: An Empathy Challenge for SLPs, Educators, and Parents #Unspoken Challenge. Share with me your comments, thoughts, and concerns about this topic!

Interested in more? Sign up for a free Character Questionnaire for Authentic Representation.

• American Speech-Language Hearing Association
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Communication with People
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
• Mayo Clinic
• NIDCD Statistics

Here’s to the future!

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Sources

1. Black, LI; Vahratian, A; Hoffman, HJ (2015): Communication disorders and use of intervention services among children aged 3–17 years: United States, 2012. NCHS data brief. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics. Jun:(205):1-8. ↩︎
2. National Aphasia Association. Aphasia FAQs. Accessed 2/6/2024. ↩︎
3. The Stuttering Foundation. FAQ. Accessed 4-15-2024 ↩︎

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We Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are the communication ninjas of the world! We train tirelessly (okay, coffee breaks are essential) to empower people of all ages with the superpowers of speech and language. But our awesomeness extends beyond the therapy room.

Stories rule the digital world. They shape how we see each other, build empathy, and create a sense of belonging. Yet, characters with communication challenges like stuttering or aphasia often get stereotyped. That’s where the SLP Superhero Speech Squad comes in!

Introducing Unspoken Volumes: Your Guide to Writing Speech-tastic Characters!

Unspoken Volumes bridges the gap between SLPs and authors. It empowers writers to craft characters who are real, relatable, and complex individuals who defy stereotypes. But Unspoken Volumes isn’t just for SLPs!

• Educators: Gain insights to create inclusive learning environments and identify potential needs in students.
• Parents: Learn valuable strategies to support your child’s communication development at home.

Unspoken Volumes: Your SLP Utility Belt

• Writer Whisperer: Crack the code on writer challenges and prevent frustration!
• Expert Sidekick: Equip writers with clear info to create authentic characters, fostering empathy in readers.
• Collaboration is Key: Partner with writers through workshops, consultations, or book discussions.

Become a Champion for Speechtastic Stories!

This is about advocating for a future where stories celebrate inclusivity. Let’s ensure characters with communication challenges are finally seen, heard, and understood, and not used as a trope or a mechanic for pity.

• Join the Mission: Your Superhero Action Plan
• Connect with Writers: Offer presentations or discussions on communication disorders.
• Partner with Bookstores & Libraries: Host book discussions and cosplay events!
• Be a Writer’s Sidekick: Offer consultations or collaborations to slay communication kryptonite!

Embrace the chance to advocate beyond therapy and make a real difference! Imagine a world where stories reflect the realities of communication challenges, fostering empathy and creating a space where everyone feels seen and valued.

Ready to suit up? Learn more about Unspoken Volumes and how YOU can be a champion for inclusive storytelling!

#UnspokenChallenge: Empathy in Action!

This week, take the Empathy Challenge! Research a communication disorder and share a short post describing a situation from that person’s perspective.

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Unlock Savings: Purchase Directly from My Web Store!

I understand that platform changes can sometimes be frustrating, and I want to ensure my books remain affordable. That’s why I’m pleased to share these exclusive discounts when you purchase directly from my web store:

Individual Discount

You can purchase any of my books for 10% off the Amazon list price.

Bulk Discount

If you order 3 or more items, you’ll receive a 20% discount on your entire order! This is a great way to stock up or share these valuable resources while saving with Mrs. Speech Books Discounts.

Please consider visiting Mrs. Speech Books to take advantage of these savings. Continue supporting my work directly. *Bonus – you can take advantage of my Author’s Signature add-on for free!

Understanding the Changes: Why Prices are Adjusting on Amazon KDP

The reason for these timely savings on Mrs. Speech Books is an upcoming change to the pricing of my books on Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) platform. These new terms, implemented by Amazon, will take effect on June 10th.

Beyond the general changes in terms, a significant factor influencing these price adjustments is a shift in Amazon KDP’s royalty structure for paperback books. Effective June 10th, books priced below a certain threshold – specifically, under $9.99 USD (and equivalent amounts in other currencies) – will see a decrease in the royalty rate paid to authors. This means that for books priced at or below this level, I would receive a smaller percentage of the sale price. See Amazon’s terms.

How This Affects My Books on Amazon:

Unfortunately, these new terms necessitate an increase in the price of some of my paperback books on Amazon. This was not a decision I made lightly. I want to be transparent with you about why this is happening.

Mrs. Speech Books (including bestselling “It’s Just the Way I Talk”)

It is with a heavy heart that I must also announce a price increase of $1.00 USD for my full-color paperback children’s speech books. These books, including my stuttering facts book “It’s Just the Way I Talk,” will now be listed on Amazon for $9.99 USD.

My intention has always been to keep these resources as accessible as possible for families and educators. I am truly disappointed that these platform changes require a price adjustment.

“Beyond the Gallows,” a novel

The price of “Beyond the Gallows” on Amazon will be increasing by $1.00 USD. This will bring the new list price to $10.99 USD. Please note that this increase will likely be reflected in other currencies as well, potentially by a greater amount.

For my children’s speech books, which were already priced with a minimal return just to cover the cost of production, this royalty rate decrease directly affects sustainability. To maintain a return that allows me to continue creating these valuable resources, a price adjustment became necessary.

It’s disheartening to have to increase the price of these books, especially knowing their importance in supporting children’s communication development. My goal was always to make them as affordable as possible. This change in Amazon’s policy has unfortunately made that more challenging.

Good News Regarding Other Titles

I’m happy to report that the pricing for my self-advocacy workbook, “Talk It Out, Work It Out,” and my writer’s guide to communication disorders, “Unspoken Volumes,” will remain the same for the time being.

Their prices will remain unchanged until the next round of term changes from Amazon. So you can continue to purchase these titles at their current prices. And just like my other books, these titles are also available at a 10% discount on Mrs. Speech Books!

Thank you for your understanding and continued support. Your readership means the world to me, and I remain committed to providing valuable resources for readers of all ages.

Please feel free to visit my webstore to take advantage of my book discounts offered there.

Have a question, concern, or comment?  Please, leave a note below!

Sincerely,

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