Anyone can learn how to support language and play. Connecting the Tots offers programming for children with and without developmental delays.
Meagan has worked as a licensed speech-language pathologist since 2011. As a lifelong resident of Massachusetts, she received her Bachelor's degree from Bridgewater State University and her Master’s degree from Emerson College in Boston. Meagan is equipped to provide guidance, practical strategies, and support to parents.
Before a child has the ability to use spoken words, providing access to gestures and signs allows for opportunities to influence language development. Research suggests that young children with a larger gestural vocabulary will likely have more robust verbal vocabularies as they get older (Goldin-Meadow, 2015).
When parents provide consistent gestural models for their young children, the use of these symbols begins earlier (Capone & McGregor, 2004).
Children are naturally curious beings and when they are engaged in play, memory and learning are also supported. By addressing meaningful play, caregivers help foster “brain building.” In other words, through the work of play, children are developing important cognitive skills including executive functioning, language development, and social development (Yogman, et al., 2018).
Sometimes, a child needs more intensive intervention to support language development. Meagan has the skills and training to provide this beneficial service. Speech and language services with Meagan will ensure that your child receives professional guidance, tailored support, and a comprehensive approach regarding the overall communication needs of the child.
