Podcast
Unbabbled
Hosted by The Parish School · EN
Navigating the world of special education, communication delays and learning differences can be a challenge. Tune in twice a month to hear Stephanie Landis and Meredith Krimmel, two speech-language pathologists at The Parish School in Houston, Texas interview guests from parents to industry professionals with the goal of providing guidance, insight and hope to those touched by children who are differently wired. Each episode will cover a different topic related to education or child development. Whether you’re the parent or caregiver of a neurodiverse child who has autism, a speech-language delay or a learning disability, or you’re an educator who works with special needs children, this show is for you.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ask Us Anything: Listener Questions and Answers | Season 8 Episode 10
1w ago00:33:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode, the topics and questions came directly from the Unbabbled Listeners. Unbabbled hosts Stephanie and Meredith answer questions submitted through social media and email by listeners, Parish School families and even one former student. Topics covered include strategies for supporting children who struggle with homework, social events like birthday parties, why a child may be referred for a speech-language evaluation in elementary school, what’s the difference between speech and language and what is the average amount of time a child receives therapy before being dismissed. These questions were thoughtful and ones we hear often from parents we work directly with. We look forward to hearing more from you on what questions or topics you would like to hear more about. Stephanie is the co-host of The Parish School’s podcast, Unbabbled, which strives to help parents, caregivers, educators and therapists navigate the world of communication delays and learning differences. She earned a BA in Psychology from Butler University in Indianapolis in 2005 and a MS in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences from Purdue University in 2008. Since joining The Parish School in 2008, Stephanie has worked as a Speech Language Pathologist in the Early Childhood, Primary and Elementary classes. She has also worked with individual clients at The Carruth Center, the school’s onsite pediatric therapy clinic. Meredith is the Director of Special Projects/Assistant to the Head of School at The Parish School. She earned her BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Texas in 2006, and her MS in Communication Disorders from Texas State University in 2008. Meredith came to The Parish School in 2008 and has worked as a SLP for the Early Childhood and Elementary classes, as well as for The Carruth Center, the school’s onsite pediatric therapy clinic. She also led groups for the school’s Social Learning program and attends Camp Social Superheroes every summer. Among the many hats she wears at The Parish School, Meredith is also the co-host of The Parish School’s podcast, Unbabbled, which strives to help parents, caregivers, educators and therapists navigate the world of communication delays and learning differences.Support the show
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Sensory Haircuts with Dee Foster | Season 8 Episode 9
May 1200:45:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak with hairdresser Dee Foster about her passion for sensory-friendly haircuts. Dee shares insights on what makes a positive sensory friendly haircut, why she feels they are so important to support families and tips for families looking for a sensory-friendly haircut experience. Dee also shares helpful self-advocacy strategies for families and acknowledges how something as seemingly simple as a haircut can make a big difference in a child’s life. Dee Foster owns Miss Dee and Friends Magic Hair Bus in Houston, Texas. She has over 15 years of experience in the hair industry, with a true passion for working with children, specializing in caring for kids' unique hair needs. She has found her niche in creating positive, stress-free experiences. Over the past nine years, Dee has dedicated herself to growing her business by meeting children exactly where they are whether at home, in a therapy setting or at school. Her top priority is ensuring every child feels safe, comfortable and confident every step of the way. Links:Miss Dee and Friends websiteMiss Dee InstagramThe Parish SchoolSupport the show
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Camp For All – Barrier-Free Summer Camp with Pat Sorrells | Season 8 Episode 8
Apr 1400:45:29Tap to summarizeFor many people, summer camp is a life-changing experience. Camp For All was designed so children and adults with disabilities, challenging illnesses and special needs can have these same life-changing experiences. In today’s episode, we speak with Camp for All CEO, Pat Prior Sorrells about the impact of barrier-free camps on children’s lives. Pat discusses what a barrier-free camp environment looks like and how every detail, including the bunk houses, activities, food, walkways and bathrooms, are specifically designed to accommodate everyone. She also discusses what makes Camp For All so unique, touches on a few of the schools and associations Camp for All partners with and gives information on how parents can find a camp for their child. Throughout the episode Pat, Meredith and Stephanie share stories about Camp For All including how it directly impacted them and the children of The Parish School. It was a joy to speak with Pat – a former Parish School parent and employee – about Camp For All. We hope you leave inspired to make some adventurous memories of your own.Pat Prior Sorrells has served as President and CEO of Camp For All since 2007. Pat began her career in advertising and marketing at Metzdorf Advertising in Houston and Point Communications in Dallas. She is an active volunteer and has served on the boards for St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, The Periwinkle Foundation, the Neuhaus Education Center and St. John’s School Alumni Board. Pat’s professional nonprofit experience began at The Parish School where she served as the Director of Development and launched the annual giving campaign. This was followed by 10 years as the Executive Director of The Periwinkle Foundation before beginning her time at Camp For All.Camp For All is a barrier-free summer camp for children and adults with challenging illnesses, disabilities or special needs. Camp For All intentionally delivers unique, truly barrier-free experiences throughout the year by collaborating with more than 65 nonprofit organizations to enable thousands of campers and their families to discover camp life. Camp For All was designed with no barriers for children and adults with special needs to experience the thrill of camping and nature, just like their able-bodied peers. All of the programming is “adaptive,” meaning that the activities can be accomplished regardless of the campers’ challenges, be it mobility, emotional or learning issues.Links:Camp For AllCamp SOCIAL The Parish SchoolSupport the show
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Speech and Language Evaluations with Allison Feldman, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jennifer Rose, MS, CCC-SLP | Season 8 Episode 7
Mar 2600:48:00Tap to summarizeIn this episode, speech-language pathologists Allison Feldman, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jennifer Rose, MS, CCC-SLP, give helpful information for families seeking a speech and language evaluation. Jennifer and Allison take us through the entire evaluation process from where to start, to what the evaluation may entail and what to expect after an evaluation. During the episode, we discuss how a child qualifies for therapy based on their evaluation and why this may differ in private practice compared to public schools or early intervention services. Jennifer and Allison also give information on what parents may look for when deciding whether to get an evaluation, what advice they give parents who hear “wait and see” from their pediatrician and touch on the benefits of an evaluation and intervention for children labeled “late talkers.” Allison Feldman, MS, CCC-SLP, and Jennifer Rose, MS, CCC-SLP, are licensed and certified speech-language pathologists and co-owners of The Speech Garden, a private practice with two locations in Houston, Texas, and one in Denver, Colorado. They both attended The University of Texas at Austin and earned their bachelor’s in communication sciences and disorders and went on to earn their masters of speech and language pathology from The University of Texas at Dallas, Callier Center. Jennifer and Allison have a wide range of experience in clinical, public school and private school settings, including time spent at The Parish School. Jennifer’s areas of expertise include diagnosis and treatment of expressive and receptive language disorders, articulation and fluency disorders, oral motor functioning and pragmatic disorders in children. Allison’s areas of expertise include diagnosis and treatment of expressive and receptive language disorders, articulation disorders and pragmatic disorders in children. Both Allison and Jennifer have a passion for working with toddlers, preschoolers and school-aged children. Links: The Speech GardenThe Parish SchoolSupport the show
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Navigating Dyslexia Laws in Texas Public Schools with Dr. Erika Westreich, PsyD, LSSP | Season 8 Episode 6
Mar 300:41:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Erika Westreich, PsyD, LSSP, about understanding dyslexia identification and intervention laws in Texas. Dr. Westreich has over 10 years of experience in public and charter schools providing educational evaluations. Throughout the episode, we discuss the new law passed in Texas moving dyslexia from general education support to special education services. Dr. Westreich talks about the way evaluations and supports were provided prior to the change, what the change means for students that have already been identified, as well as those who have not yet been identified, and what way the law changed. Dr. Westreich also discusses the positives and drawbacks of changing dyslexia to full under the special education umbrella. The public education system can be confusing and difficult to navigate for parents and professionals; hopefully this episode provides information to help families advocate for their children and better understand the system. Dr. Erika Westreich, PsyD, LSSP is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Specialist in School Psychology. She obtained her doctorate at St. John’s University in Flushing, NY. She has spent the past 10 years working both in the private sector and within the Alief ISD Public Schools and YES Prep Charter Schools. Dr. Westreich specializes in conducting psychological and psycho-educational assessments for children as well as diagnostic testing for adults seeking clarity or differential diagnosis. She takes a strength-based approach to her work, striving to identify and leverage student’s strengths to address any weaknesses impacting their academic and/or home performance. In addition, she has extensive experience supporting families as they navigate the often-complex process of securing appropriate school services for their children. Support the show
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Art Therapy with Ania Wasowicz | Season 8 Episode 5
Feb 1100:31:40Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we discuss Art Therapy with Ania Wasowicz, LCAT. During the conversation, Ania explains what Art Therapy is, who may benefit from art therapy and how she found her passion for supporting people through the creative arts. Ania also discusses why art therapy may work better for some kids than more traditional talk therapy. Finally, she touches on myths and misunderstandings around Art Therapy. For example, Ania reassures us that you don't have to be an artist to benefit from Art Therapy! Ania is a board-certified and licensed creative arts therapist in New York with over eight years of experience using art therapy and EMDR across inpatient settings, schools, and private practice. She works with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, and trauma. She also currently serves on the Art Therapy Credentialing Board. Ania believes deeply in the power of creativity as a supportive, grounding tool for expression, regulation and meaningful healing. Links:American Art Therapy AssociationArt Therapy at The Parish SchoolUnbabbled InstagramSupport the show
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Benefits of Nature-Learning with Amanda McMickle | Season 8 Episode 4
Jan 1300:49:38Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with nature-learning educator and expert, Amanda McMickle, M.Ed. Amanda has over 20 years of experience as an educator and school leader working in nature-based programs in private and public Elementary and Early Childhood schools. During the episode, Amanda discusses her personal journey as an educator that led to her passion and knowledge of nature-based learning. She talks about the many benefits of nature-based learning including academic, social-emotional and physical benefits. Amanda also shares research supporting its positive impacts and gives tips for educators looking to bring a bit of nature-learning into their classrooms. Meredith and Stephanie also give first-hand accounts of the positive impact nature-learning has here at The Parish School. Amanda is the Vice President of Education at the San Antonio Zoo. Amanda is the founder of NEST (Nature-based Education Support in Texas), a regional group focused on nature-based philosophy, best practices, and advocacy. She also serves on the leadership board of Natural Start Alliance, the early childhood initiative of North American Association of Environmental Education (NAAEE). Amanda is working on her Ph.D. in a program at the University of the Incarnate Word entitled Adult Education, Social Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Support the show
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It's More Than Numbers with Sarah Powell | Season 8 Episode 3
Dec 1600:49:29Tap to summarizeWhen most people think about math, they picture numbers and equations. Today’s guest, Dr. Sarah Powell, explains that math is more than just numbers – it’s vocabulary, language comprehension, cognition and executive functioning on top of understanding number sense! Throughout the episode, Sarah digs into the language of math, gives tips on how to teach math vocabulary and discusses why supporting all of the underlying skills builds stronger learners now and in the long run. Sarah Powell is a professor in the College of Education at The University of Texas at Austin and associate director of the Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk. She is a former kindergarten teacher who became interested in school-based research. Her research, teaching and service focus on mathematics, particularly for students who experience mathematics differently. Powell is currently principal investigator on a number of grants and research projects looking into word-problem solving and working collaboratively with elementary and middle school teachers who provide mathematics instruction to students with mathematics difficulty.Support the show
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Making Life Skills at Home Fun with Beth Rosenbleeth from Days with Grey | Season 8 Episode 2
Nov 1800:39:41Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we chat with Beth Rosenbleeth from Days with Grey about helping children learn a variety of life skills for both their daily lives now and in the future. This includes gamifying learning and breaking skills down into simplified, easy-to-follow steps. Throughout the episode, Beth shares why she developed her Life Skills for Big Kids cards, how her own boys have responded to learning new skills and tips for families teaching new skills at home. From simple tasks like using a peeler or tying a shoe, to bigger ones like ordering food or speaking up at the doctor, these skills build a sense of independence and confidence. Beth shares her goal of going beyond teaching chores or tasks to develop bite-sized wins that help your child become more independent and thrive even when you’re not around.Beth is an educator certified in K-12 with a master’s degree in reading. After teaching for 13 years, she started Days with Grey in 2016 to share the educational activities she was doing with her two boys. Now a mom to three boys, Beth shares her Breakfast Invitations and activity cards with families all over the world through her blog and Instagram. She has something for toddlers through tween years to help you support your child learn and play at home. Links:Life Skills for Big Kids CardsDays with Grey websiteUnbabbled Season 3 Episode 11 At-Home Toddler Activities with Beth from Days with GreySupport the show
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Finding Resources for Families with Judy Blake | Season 8 Episode 1
Oct 2000:38:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we sit down with Judy Blake, the community outreach liaison at Innerlight Community Advocates, to discuss finding resources to support children and their families. Throughout the episode, Judy shares her personal experiences as a parent and her professional experience supporting families through her roles in a variety of Texas-based organizations. She provides both general advice applicable to families everywhere, as well as specific resources for those in the Houston area. Innerlight Community Advocates is a community-based behavioral health agency in Houston,Texas that provides wraparound and outpatient services. Judy also is a family faculty and board member of the LoneStar LEND Program where she works with medical residents, fellows, graduate students and professionals throughout an interdisciplinary training model. Judy is the co-coordinator of the Harris County Community Resource Collaboration Group, co-chair of the IDD Public Advisory Committee, and vice chair of the Mental Health Public Advisory Committee at The Harris Center for Mental Health. She previously worked at Family-to-Family Network, a Houston non-profit that provided programs that empower families of children and young adults with disabilities. Judy’s most cherished role is being a mother of two adult sons. Her younger son was diagnosed at a time when autism spectrum disorder was unknown to many, so she quickly became his advocate, always ensuring that he was living a meaningful life. Links:Texas Project FirstNavigate Life FirstInsurance and Financial FAQSpecial Education InformationMedical WaversFamily to Family NetworkInnerlight Community AdvocatesLonestar LEND ProgramSupport the show
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