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Every journey begins with a single step. For some, it is loud and obvious. For others, it arrives quietly through a splash of color, a gentle glide on ice, or a smile that refuses to dim. For Pranav Aggarwal , fondly known as Little Artist Pranav , that first step came early in life and unfolded into a journey that continues to inspire hearts across India and beyond. The Multifaceted World of Little Artist Pranav   In the heart of Gurugram, India , lives an extraordinary young soul named Pranav Aggarwal . He is 13 years old and has Down Syndrome , and he has transformed what many see as limitations into a vibrant explosion of creativity that inspires thousands. Pranav’s paintings bursting with bold acrylics, abstract forms, and nature’s essence are not just art. They are powerful declarations of joy, resilience, and the boundless human spirit . His canvases speak a language that transcends words: swirling rainbows, blooming flowers, lush jungles, and radiant bursts of optimism that seem to leap off the surface. But Pranav’s gifts extend far beyond the canvas. With equal passion, he glides across the ice on skates , moves rhythmically through dance, plays tennis, walks the ramp with confidence, and steps into the spotlight as a budding actor. Each pursuit is a reminder that true potential blooms wherever it is nurtured with belief and love . A Journey of Discovery and Triumph   Diagnosed with Down Syndrome just two weeks after birth , Pranav’s parents were suddenly standing at the edge of an unknown future. Like many families, they faced uncertainty—but they chose hope, determination, and action. Armed with unwavering love, they committed to providing Pranav every opportunity to thrive early therapies, inclusive education, and endless encouragement. Today, Pranav attends an inclusive school , growing alongside his peers, forming friendships, and learning in an environment that celebrates difference rather than hiding it. A defining moment arrived when Pranav was six years old , during a routine occupational therapy session. Art educator Rahul Sir introduced a simple activity: splashing water and pouring colors. What unfolded was nothing short of magical. Pranav’s eyes lit up with pure delight as he experimented freely. His parents, initially unsure about the role art could play, witnessed something profound, a spark of joy and self-expression that traditional tools had never unlocked. That moment changed everything. Art Without Rules: A Language of Freedom   Under Rahul Sir’s patient guidance, Pranav embraced unconventional techniques that perfectly suited him. He found brushes “boring.” Instead, he chose fingers, sponges, forks, paper, leaves, knives, hairdryers, and everyday objects to bring his imagination to life. Bright, lively acrylic tones dominate his palette. His art is abstract, expressive, and deeply emotional a reflection of how he sees and feels the world . Painting became Pranav’s voice. “Painting! Colors, splashes, using fingers, hairdryer, leaves, twigs, sponges… wow!!! I feel free, it’s like anything is possible. I smile big big, heart is full of happiness.” Through art, Pranav expresses dreams, emotions, and feelings that words sometimes cannot hold. His joy doesn’t stay confined to the canvas, it spreads outward, touching everyone who encounters his work. “The joy that I get when I am creating these paintings—you will experience similar joy when you see these paintings. They make people smile, feel strong. Like my joy spreads to you. That’s the magic. Art touches hearts.” Finding Strength in Love    Like every child walking a different path, Pranav has faced moments of challenge. When asked about feeling different or finding strength during difficult times, his answer is simple, pure, and powerful. “My family and friends! Their trust in me, big big encouragement.When they smile seeing my painting, or cheer loud when I skate or act wow! That makes my heart so happy and strong.Their love lights my way, like bright colors on canvas.Family and friends… best strength ever! 😊” For Pranav, strength is not abstract. It is visible in smiles, cheers, hands held tightly, and voices that say “Champion.” Gliding with Grace: Pranav’s Skating Prowess   Pranav’s spirit of adventure doesn’t stop at the easel, it flows effortlessly onto the skating rink. Despite assumptions that physical activities might be difficult, Pranav defies expectations with his remarkable skating skills . Through dedicated training and sheer willpower, he has learned to glide, twirl, balance, and move with confidence.Videos shared by his family capture him skating with a radiant smile , his movements fluid and fearless despite the coordination challenges associated with Down Syndrome. In a world that often underestimates children with disabilities, Pranav’s skating journey sends a clear message: With passion and support, even the slipperiest paths can become playgrounds of possibility. Spotlight and Stories: Acting, Modelling, and Expression   Under the stage lights, Pranav’s natural charisma shines. As a young actor and model, he brings an infectious energy to every appearance. His expressive face, unfiltered emotions, and joyful presence, honed through art and skating allow him to connect deeply with audiences. Acting, for Pranav, is another canvas. It builds confidence, encourages emotional expression, and strengthens his voice. His family’s encouragement has led to meaningful appearances at community events, often alongside other neurodiverse peers, creating moments of shared celebration and belonging. In these spaces, Pranav doesn’t just perform. He inspires. Beyond the Canvas: Achievements and Impact   Pranav’s multifaceted talents have taken him far beyond expectations. He became the youngest artist featured in the Deep Down Arts Exhibition in Mexico . He has held three solo exhibitions at prestigious venues in India . His artwork has been showcased and sold through platforms such as Art n Dreams, Artytude, and Atypical Advantage , touching hearts across national and international audiences. On the rink, his skating continues to draw admiration. On stage and runway, his presence challenges stereotypes. Every achievement is not just a milestone, it is a statement: True beauty emerges from authenticity and perseverance. Words for Those Who Doubt Themselves   When asked what message he would share with people struggling or doubting themselves, Pranav speaks with wisdom far beyond his years: “If you’re struggling, or that voice says ‘you can’t’, listen, When I was tiny, I couldn’t even hold a fork right. But I kept splashing colours anyway.Start small. Find your colour, your skate, your dance.Let family smile, let friends cheer. Their trust? It’s rocket fuel.Doubt will come, but joy is louder.Keep going—just keep going.You already have the strength; it’s hiding in the next silly, happy moment.I’m cheering for you.” What Lifts His Spirit on Difficult Days    Even champions have tough days. On those days, Pranav turns to love. “On bad day… I just hear mom’s voice—‘Pranav, beta, you painted that rainbow once, right?’Or brother holds my hand tight-tight, pulls me to mirror, silly skate pose.Papa says one word: ‘Champion.’Boom I’m up.” Sometimes, healing doesn’t need answers. It needs presence. Dreams That Paint the Future: Art n Dreams   Pranav’s dreams are deeply connected to his brother Lakshya’s vision . “My dream… is Lakshya’s dream. Art and Dreams.One room where all artists are safe. Work sold quietly. World sees us, not as inspiration, just… us.”   Art n Dreams is a transformative initiative sparked by Lakshya to celebrate Pranav’s talent and create space for neurodiverse artists to thrive. The vision is bold yet gentle: Partner with schools, organizations, and industries Integrate artwork into corporate gifting, CSR initiatives, events, and social campaigns like #ArtMeetsInclusion Empower artists with financial autonomy Build a global movement where creativity leads inclusion A Diwali gift that tells a story. A corporate event inspired by live painting. A world where neurodiverse artists are seen calmly, proudly, authentically. A Beacon of Hope   Little Artist Pranav’s journey is a living reminder that potential is limitless when nurtured with belief, creativity, and love . He does not create for fame. He creates for joy. And in doing so, he lights paths for others, across canvases, skating rinks, stages, and hearts. As Pranav continues to explore new colors, movements, and stories, he invites us all to embrace our own sparks. Because resilience isn’t about overcoming obstacles alone. It’s about finding your light and letting it shine.

What is differently abled children? The definition of differently abled children refers to children who have physical, sensory, intellectual, or developmental differences but possess unique abilities and strengths. I’m a Speech Language Pathologist and one of the perks of my profession has been meeting various children who are different. Differently Abled Children are different than your kids. Different than the families they are born in. These amazing children have surpassed the urge to survive! They are born fighters and can take the world for a spin! Like you and me they don’t fuss about paltry issues of the society including politics, discrimination, racism and the like. They live in a free world, which is smothered with love and respect for each other. All they care about is happiness and brotherhood. And all they need is recognition and acceptance! These children are legally labelled ‘disabled’. Disabled because some of them can’t hear or talk, others can’t walk or participate physically, and still others can’t see or sense. But they are not disabled; rather, they are differently abled! They are endowed with abilities similar to ours, if not superior to them. Our society is disabling their capabilities, their strengths, their merits and talents! If you look around yourself you will be alarmed to see that these individuals and children are a chunk of us! Us the society. Differently abled child development According to the latest census reports, India has 20.42 lakh disabled children between the ages of 0-6 years. Children with hearing and eyesight disabilities form the lion’s share among them. There are more than 41 lakh children with vision problems and 47 lakh children with hearing problems across all age groups.Around 30 % of these disabled children live in Urban India and yes the figures are rising. Early identification and intervention is the answer. The sooner a child is diagnosed the better chances he has to progress and do well for himself. Early intervention programs are designed to mitigate the factors that place children at risk of poor outcomes. Such programs provide support for the parents, the children, or the family. Parenting is a challenging journey and more so, when you are parenting children with special needs. Its vital that we understand these children are an essential part of our tomorrow. That they need our support, not opposition, our empathy not sympathy and our encouragement not suppression.

Neurodiversity is a powerful reminder that there’s no one “right” way to think, learn, or succeed. Conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are often seen as challenges—but for many, they are also sources of creativity, innovation, and unique brilliance. In this blog, we explore the lives of famous people with ADHD and autism  who have used their differences as strengths. These celebrities with autism and ADHD  have proven that having a diagnosis doesn't hold anyone back from achieving greatness—it can be a part of what makes them extraordinary. No matter what traits of disorder one might have, they have their distinctive strengths and talents. There are several famed personalities with autism spectrum disorder who have used their strengths and talents to attain success, fame, or to accomplish wonderful things. Following are the names of some of them: 1. Isaac Newton Newton showed many signs of Asperger syndrome (Autism Spectrum Disorder). A kind of condition that doesn’t cause learning difficulties. Baron-Cohen, from Oxford University, assessed the temperament traits of Newton to understand if he shows 3 key symptoms of Asperger syndrome: obsessional interests, issues in social relationships, and issues acting the appropriate behavior. He is a classic case of Asperger’s Syndrome. His core features: always quiet, completely engrossed in the work that he typically use to forget eating. He didn’t enjoy social interactions and use to feel awkward in conversations with others. If nobody turned up for his lectures, he gave them anyway. 2. Elbert Einstein As a child, Einstein always likes to be alone. He struggled to form sentences till the age of seven years. His students called him a confusing lecturer. Einstein exhibited three key symptoms of Asperger syndrome: obsessive interests, difficulty in social relationships, and problems communicating. He liked talking in an empty room with no students. He had a nervous breakdown at 50, because of depression and paranoia. Two scientists have conclued that he had a behavioural condition – attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. 3. Leonardo da Vinci He is widely known for his paintings, especially Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. Leonardo also had a creative mind and showed some features like lack of discipline,  working hours, and lack of sleep. 4. Carl Jung – specialist & therapist Psychoanalytic theories have a great deal to do with the personality of the creator. Carl Jung was on the autism spectrum formerly called Asperger’s syndrome.  People on the spectrum have identity diffusion and move very easily between fact and fantasy.  Jung had what is called autistic intelligence, which was, ̔unconventional, unorthodox̕, and strange. 5. Anthony Philip Hopkins - Actor Anthony Hopkins is an award-winning actor. A number of his traits of Autism spectrum disorder reflect psychoneurotic thinking, problem maintaining friendships, and looking out at friends with a novel perspective. 6. Charles Darwin Charles is believed to possess autism spectrum disorder. Darwin was an awfully quiet one that avoided social interactions. He was conjointly most popular to speak by writing instead of verbally expressing. 7. Nikola Tesla-Inventor It is believed that Tesla had several phobias. He experienced sensitivity to lightweight and sound. He is conjointly most popular to be alone and is thought to be obsessed with the number. 8. Bobby Fischer Is famous as a chess player and World Chess Champion. He dislikes unstructured things and experiences difficulty in moving well with others. Bobby Fischer was the youngest winner of the U.S. Championship at the age of 14, making him one of the most renowned chess players in history. Many people consider Bobby Fischer, a chess prodigy, to be among the best chess players of all time. The first American player to ever win the World Championship was Fisher. He gained notoriety for his genius. He also became well-known for his unpredictable actions, many of which are linked to autism spectrum disorders. Many have conjectured about his mental health, particularly whether he had autism, as a result of his extraordinary talent and peculiar conduct. 9. Eminem- Musician He faced a tease at school because of autism. He described himself as shy and awkward. Speculation surrounds Eminem’s potential neurodivergence, particularly autism, due to his intense focus, lyrical precision, and emotional depth. Fans often analyze his music and personal challenges—such as a troubled childhood, addiction, and depression—for signs of traits linked to autism spectrum disorder. While no official confirmation exists, his work’s emotional rawness and deep introspection reflect qualities associated with neurodiversity. Eminem’s journey has resonated with the neurodivergent community, sparking ongoing discussions about the possible connection between his artistic genius and autism. His resilience through adversity continues to inspire and intrigue audiences worldwide. The lyrics of “wicked ways” are ‘Ever heard of Aspergers? It’s a rare condition, It’s what you’re suffering from when you simply don’t care if it’s an eighty-degree day and there’s no fricke air conditioning. 8. Elon Musk He is a well-known entrepreneur. While hosting a show “Saturday Night Live,” in 2021 revealed that he is on the spectrum. 9. Clay Marzo – Professional Surfer Marzo is a professional competitive surfer from Hawaii. He is a child with autism. He won many surfing competitions and had many accomplishments including two Perfect 10s during a National Scholastic Surfing Association at age 15. Alia bhatt Alia Bhatt recently opened up about her diagnosis of ADHD and anxiety during a podcast with Jay Shetty. She shared that she experienced concentration issues, memory lapses, and physical discomfort in social situations, which led her to seek professional help. After a psychological evaluation, she was diagnosed with ADHD and anxiety but chose not to take medication. Instead, she focuses on self-awareness and lifestyle changes. Alia finds peace in acting and spending time with her daughter. Her openness brings much-needed attention to adult ADHD and encourages others to understand and manage their mental health with honesty and compassion. 4o More famed personalities with this disorder: Thomas Alva Edison-artificer Alexander Graham Bell-artificer Henry Ford- artificer Ludwig Beethoven- Musician James Taylor- Singer-Songwriter & musician Lionel Messi- Player Craig Nicholls- Musician Wentworth Miller- Actor Tim Burton- Director Embracing Neurodiversity in Everyday Life The stories of these famous people with ADHD and autism  show us that success is not about conforming—it's about embracing what makes you different. Whether in science, sports, music, or acting, celebrities with autism and ADHD  are challenging stereotypes and redefining what it means to thrive. For families raising children with ASD and ADHD , these individuals offer hope, proof, and inspiration that neurodivergent minds are not only capable—they’re brilliant. As awareness around neurodiversity continues to grow, it's essential to recognize and celebrate the achievements of famous people with ASD and ADHD . Their success stories can help remove the stigma and build a world that sees neurodiversity as a strength, not a setback. If you or your child is on the autism spectrum or living with ADHD, know that you’re not alone—and your potential is limitless. Feel free to contact us if you are still facing challenges in understanding your kid’s speech and language difficulties.

Speech Therapy Activities for Ganesh Chaturthi Ganesha is said to be the Lord of wisdom and knowledge! He is the symbol of prosperity and his blessings are invoked before starting any auspicious work. Being a popular God,  Ganesha with his 108 different names is a culture in himself, something which all Hindus are proud of! In this blog I will cover some easy speech therapy activities for Ganesh Chaturthi. Furthermore these speech therapy activities can be used by parents as well as educators or professionals. Children with speech delay or autism will also benefit from these activities. What is Ganesh Chaturthi? Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayaka Chaturthi s a popular Hindu festival  which marks the birth anniversary of Lord Ganesha. This beautiful festival is celebrated in the months of August or September all over the world,  per the Hindu calendar. It is a 10 days long event which starts from the fourth day of the ‘Bhadrapada’ month and is celebrated to worship Lord Ganesh. “Ganpati Bappa Moriya” all devotees exclaim as they worship this magnificent deity! Speech Therapy Activities for Ganesh Chaturthi 1. Ganapati Dress Up You can dress up your child as Ganapati with minimal items at home. You can simply use a fancy dupatta, some ornaments and light makeup to do this activity. Make the elephant head mask with paper and get creative! Activity examples Name all items used in the activity (vocabulary building) Teach the sequence of wearing clothes. Demonstrate the order and then ask the child to tell the correct order. e.g : First we will wear the vest, then the dhoti, after that we will wear the dupatta, then the ornaments. etc. Click photos after the dress up and ask the child whom all he/she wants to share the pictures with. Talk about grandparents, friends and identify names of relatives Make a video of the little Ganesha playing dancing or eating modak. Encourage him to say a few lines or sing a song. Further, show him the video and praise his confidence. Skills that can be worked upon : Vocabulary building, sentence formation, developing communication intent, gross motor skills. 2. Count the modak Getting modak/ laddoo sweets from the market or making them at home can be a great activity to build on speech and language of your child. There is so much you can do with these sweets! Activity examples: Take a big plate and arrange the modaks in it. Ask the child to count all of them Activity variation : Keep only a few modaks and count again. If your child can recognise numbers, make some chits of paper with numbers written in them. Ask him to pick the correct number chit. Take two plates with different number of modaks in each. Work with the child with the concept of more, less and equal. Skills that can be worked upon : Attention and concentration, joint attention, sitting tolerance, fine motor skills, eye hand coordination, numeracy skills. 3. Laddoo Tower Children will love this game. This can be done with real laddoos or even laddoos made from play dough! It should be a 3 D laddoo which the child can feel and turn into a pile. Activity examples: Put the laddoos in a plate Play a stacking game where you and the child get turns to make a pile. Whoever knocks off the laddoo loses. Another variation : Both you and your child make separate laddoo towers. The tallest tower wins! Skills that can be worked upon : Attention and concentration, joint attention, sitting tolerance, fine motor skills, eye hand coordination. 4. Sweets in a box This game is sure to encourage your child to sit longer with you and work on communication alongside having fin! Activity examples: Grab some mithai like laddoos or modak or barfi or any other which the child likes Get a box or which the child can easily open/close ( If the child can’t do this yet, you can assist him/her in this step) Put all the mithai in a plate and ask the child to sort it out into different piles. Encourage the child to transfer the sweets from the plate into the box. Record the time and make it fun! Talk about how the sweets are different from each other. Draw the child’s attention to the difference in colour, size, shape and taste. Skills that can be worked upon : Attention and concentration, joint attention, sitting tolerance, fine motor skills, eye hand coordination. 5. Laddoo Jenga This is a Ganpati twist to the classic game of Jenga. So much to do and get the child excited about learning! You will need playdough to make laddoos. Keep around 20 play dough laddoos ready. Activity examples: Place all the play dough laddoos in a pile. ( Keep the base with more number of laddoos and go narrow on the top) Game is to pull out the laddoos one by one from the tower without disturbing it. Whoever knocks off the tower loses. Encourage turn taking while playing this game. Talk about the laddoos and add new words like : tall /short, one/many, start/stop etc. Skills that can be worked upon : Attention and concentration, joint attention, sitting tolerance, vocabulary building, fine motor skills, eye hand coordination. 6. Art Craft & Decorations Involving kids in doing hands on crafts is an amazing method for speech language stimulation and practice. Crafts invite repetition, create structure and produce an awesome tangible reward for task completion. Additionally, doing the craft the child can ask for help, use sounds and words and make requests. Furthermore crafts create more opportunities for language expansion in a fun way. Activity examples: Lentil/Dal Ganesha : Print out a Ganesha figure and encourage child to stick different dal/lentils to decorate. Paper Plate Ganpati : Take a pair plate and colour it to make a Ganpati. Additionally, talk about the body parts and revise that concept. Image credit : K4Craft Ganesha’s umbrella: With  your child, create a beautiful paper umbrella and stick a straw to it. Henceforth, encourage the child to place the umbrella on the Ganesha idol at home. Give choices to your child about the colour of the umbrella, ask simple open ended questions like : “Why would Ganesha need umbrella?” “What if Ganesha can’t carry the umbrella?” Image from Proeves.com Ganesha’s play dough idol: Use play dough or clay to make Ganesha’s idol. By all means, exercising the little fingers, children will be able to practice their fine motor skills with this fun activity. Talk as you make the idol together. Ask simple questions to take the child’s choice into account. “Which colour shall we choose?” “How many modaks shall we make?” Rangoli Making:  Make a colourful rangoli together! Use eco friendly colours or flowers. You can first draw and colour the rangoli on paper. Then referring to it, ask the child about when to use which colour. Learn more about how sensory activities facilitate speech and language development here . Ganesha Painting: Print out Krishna colouring sheet here and encourage your child to colour it. By and large, you can revise all the colour names and give simple directions while colouring. Aarti Thali Decoration: Encourage your child to help you in decorating the aarti thali. Get him to pluck flowers, put them in the thali. Arrange the prasad and sweets, put Ganesha Idol and make the swastika with red vermilion. Decorate Pooja place: This can be so much fun! Help your child to decorate the madir/pooja place at home with flowers, buntings, garlands and other fancy crafty bits. Ganesha Bookmarks: This is a simple activity which you can do with your little one. Draw Ganesha and encourage child to colour it. Stick them on Ice lolly sticks and you’re done. Give choices to your child and take his lead while doing this activity. Use the bookmarks meaningfully to add more to this creation. Picture credit to Arty Hearts on YouTube. Ganesha with different items:  Make different Ganeshas with foods like biscuits,idli or even with paan leaves and flowers.  Wonderful ideas on Pinterest.com 7. Ganesha Worksheets/Printables Download these amazing Ganesha worksheets that your child will absolutely enjoy. These have been created by Speech Language Therapists and educators and will help your child in building important skills of language, communication, speech and cognition. Download here! 8. Reading Ganesha Books Books are a treasure house of learning new words and practising speech sounds. They additionally help to strengthen the foundations of early literacy and reading. Here is a list of books that you can get for your little one on Janamashtmi.  Coupled with speaking strategies, books are a powerhouse of knowledge for kids. Read here  to learn how to use books in speech therapy. Ganesha’s sweet tooth Boogie Woogie Ganesha Ganesha Cut out board book Ganesha illustrated stories Ganesha goes to a party Ganesha Mousecapde Round about Ganesha Amma tell me about Ganesha Lord Ganesha’s feast of laughter Ganesha the race around the world 9. Visit to the Temple All hindus visit a temple/ pandal  on this auspicious day. Firstly, take your child along with you. Secondly, talk about the different deities, the prasad, the long queues, the decorations in the temple. Finally, let your child explore the festivities! If the child is very young, then take him and narrate and expose him to different new words. For older children, prepare them before hand. Henceforth, ask them to look at all the things in the temple and come home and name any 3 things he liked. 10. Ganesha Bhajans & Songs You will find various Ganesha bhajans on YouTube. Play the songs and dance along with the child. You can expose the child to new vocabulary in your mother tongue with this activity. Eventually, listening to the same songs again and again strengthens the vocabulary. 11. Kitchen Activities All festivals in India call for sweets and savouries. Many Indian households prepare lavish sweets at home as well as order from a local sweet shop. Kitchen activities will provide novel real time opportunities to connect with your child, model correct language and expose him to a variety of meaningful conversations. Activity examples Make laddoos/modak at home. Involve your child in helping mix the ingredients, pick up plates and henceforth store the sweets in boxes. Create a grocery list. Ask your child what he wants to eat on the day of the festival . Put that in the list as a word or a drawing. Additionally, encourage him to tick it off when you go shopping. 12. Ganesha Vocabulary Ganesha is said to have 108 names. Teach these common and easy ones to your child. Ganpati Vinayak Ganpati Bappa Lambodara Vighnesh Gajanan Mahakay Vakrtund Omkara I hope these ideas will give you plenty of opportunities to engage with your child! Genuine emotional moments when you connect with your child, foster joint attention. Such occasions lay the foundation of correct modeling of language. All these activities can be done at home. Remember to take the child’s lead. Do not waste money, but make use of items at home. Involving your child is all that matters. Let me know if you find these activities useful! Leave a comment below. Wondering if your child has a speech delay ? Take this free screening test to find out. Do not wait and watch. Quality help is right here! View this post on Instagram A post shared by 1SpecialPlace | Speech Therapy 🇮🇳 (@1specialplace) #SpeechDelay #speechtherapyactivities #Speechtherapyactivitiesathome

The Disability Certificate is a document that serves as proof of a person's disability. It may also be referred to as the PwD certificate, PH certificate, or handicap certificate. This certificate, along with an identity card, is crucial for individuals with disabilities of more than 40%. It enables them to access various facilities, benefits, and concessions available under different schemes. Defining Disability The World Health Organization (WHO) defines disability as "an umbrella term covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions." An impairment refers to a problem in body function or structure. An activity limitation indicates a difficulty an individual faces in executing a task or action. Participation restriction describes challenges an individual encounters in engaging in life situations. Disability is not merely a health issue; it is a complex phenomenon that reflects the interaction between a person's physical features and the societal environment in which they live. In India, the Persons with Disabilities Act (PWD Act) is a significant law that outlines the various disabilities recognized by the Indian government. It also clearly defines each disability. Read about the Act here. The Disability Certificate is not a mandatory document but is highly beneficial for PwD. Types of Disabilities Included The PWD Act specifies which disabilities are covered under the Disabled certificate. Initially, the 1995 version of the Act included only seven disabilities. However, a significant change in 2016 expanded this list to include 21 disabilities . These include: Blindness Low vision Locomotor disability Hearing impairment Mental retardation Mental illness Leprosy Cerebral Palsy Dwarfism Muscular dystrophy Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD) Deafness Autism Spectrum Disorder Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Parkinson’s disease Haemophilia Thalassemia Sickle cell disease Multiple disabilities (any two or more disabilities) Acid Attack Survivors Understanding Disabilities Physical Impairment : This refers to a limitation in physical functioning. Locomotor Disability : This is the inability to perform specific movements related to moving oneself and objects due to musculoskeletal or nervous system issues. A person who has been cured of leprosy but still experiences limitations is referred to as a “leprosy cured person.” Cerebral Palsy : A group of non-progressive neurological conditions that affect movement and muscle coordination. Dwarfism : A medical or genetic condition resulting in an adult height of 4 feet 10 inches (147 centimeters) or less. Muscular Dystrophy : A group of inherited muscle diseases that weaken the muscles responsible for movement. Acid Attack Victims : Individuals who have suffered physical harm from acid or caustic chemical attacks. Permanent and Temporary Disabilities Individuals with both permanent and temporary disabilities can obtain a Disability Certificate. A Permanent Disability is one that does not change over time, such as limb amputations. A Temporary Disability may vary and can resolve over time, such as a broken limb or loss of speech due to an accident. The Disability Certificate for a temporary disability must be renewed every five years, while a permanent disability certificate is valid for life. Importance of the Disability Certificate The Disability Certificate is crucial for individuals with disabilities. It allows them to access benefits and facilities they are entitled to from Central and State Government bodies. Various services and schemes are available, which may differ from one state to another. However, some schemes are provided by the Centre. Benefits, Schemes, and Facilities for PwD Here are a few benefits available to individuals with disabilities: Income tax deductions (under section 80U) Travel concessions for railway fares and airlines (Government airlines) Disability pensions under the Gandhi National Disability Scheme Subsidies for medical aids or prosthetics, such as wheelchairs Employment quotas within government jobs for PwD Free education for children aged 6 to 12 years Scholarship schemes for students with disabilities Conveyance allowances for central government employees with disabilities Increased allowances under PDS (ration) schemes 10. Preference in land allotment and housing schemes 11. Filing complaints before the Commissioner for Disabilities for rights violations under the 1995 Act. The concessions and allowances may depend on individual income, degree of disability, etc. It is essential to review these details carefully before applying for the schemes. Eligibility for the Disability Certificate To obtain the Disability Certificate, an individual must: Be an Indian citizen. Have a valid medical report indicating the type and severity of the disability. Have a recognized disability. All 21 disabilities mentioned under the PWD Act, 2016, are included. Authorized Issuers of the Certificate In India, the Disability Certificate is typically issued by medical authorities or boards. The individual with a disability or their parent must visit an authorized medical center or hospital to request the certificate. To simplify and decentralize the issuance of the Disability Certificate, a multi-tier system was established in 2009. This allows individuals not to rely solely on the Medical Board. Depending on the type of disability, a medical certificate can be obtained from Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), Sub-Divisional hospitals, a single specialist, or a multi-member board. The medical authority assesses the individual's disability as prescribed by the Act and provides relevant information, including the type and severity percentage of the disability for processing the Disability Certificate. Read about the multi-tier medical authorities here . A person can apply for the Disability Certificate in person or online. A YouTube video can guide how to apply for the certificate online. Check the online link here. More details on places to visit to get the certificate and medical letter here. Validity and Guidelines Validity The Disability Certificate has lifelong validity when issued to a disabled person above the age of 18. For disabled children under 18, the certificate must be updated every five years. No fresh medical examination is necessary for permanent disabilities. However, individuals with temporary disabilities must update their certificate every five years . The Disability Certificate should be issued within seven days from the date of application receipt, but no later than one month. Guidelines The Government has provided guidelines to ease the process of obtaining the Disability Certificate: Specific days in a week/month may be fixed for issuing certificates. Camps may be held at the taluka/block level for issuing Disability Certificates. Camps may be linked with other programs, such as rural development and poverty alleviation. A specific timeframe for issuing Disability Certificates may be established. Challenges in issuing certificates for individuals with mental retardation due to a lack of specialists may be addressed by including private practitioners in the Medical Board. No fees should be charged to individuals with disabilities for issuing the Disability Certificate. The Disability Certificate is valid across the country. Previously, the concessions and schemes of the state where the certificate was issued were only applicable. This changed with the amendment to The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. Disability Certificates will soon be replaced by Unique Disability ID Cards in India. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment will launch a centralized database of disabled persons and issue Unique Disabled Identity (UDID) cards. ( More details here or here ). Once PwD receives the Disability Certificate, they can pursue the available concessions. Unfortunately, the paperwork can be lengthy and complicated. The Indian Government has been issuing notices to various government bodies to streamline processes for PwD, making them as easy and least taxing as possible. Useful Links Punarbhava Vikaspedia Guidelines: Click here The Office of the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities is the government agency responsible for implementing the Persons with Disabilities Act . The Association of People with Disabilities is a national organization dedicated to empowering disabled individuals. We hope this article was informative. If you have any comments or queries, please leave us a few lines. Subscribe to stay updated with the latest information about disability through our Disabilities Scheme blog articles.

Why Families Are Searching for Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment in 2026 If you are reading this, you may be: • Worried about delayed speech• Concerned about limited eye contact• Struggling with repetitive behaviours• Feeling overwhelmed after a recent diagnosis• Unsure which therapy actually works The internet is full of conflicting advice. Some claim miracle cures. Others say nothing helps. The truth is more grounded and hopeful. Autism spectrum disorder treatment in 2026 is more structured, evidence based, and personalized than ever before. Autism is not a disease. It is a neurodevelopmental difference. The goal is not to “fix” a child. The goal is to build skills, independence, and meaningful participation in life.   What Is the Real Goal of Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment? Modern treatment focuses on improving functional outcomes. This includes: • Communication skills• Social understanding• Emotional regulation• Adaptive daily living skills• Learning readiness The aim is to help children navigate the world confidently, not to change who they are.   Early Signs That Lead Parents to Seek Treatment Many families search for autism spectrum disorder treatment after noticing: • No meaningful words by 18 to 24 months• Limited response to name• Reduced eye contact• Repetitive movements• Sensory sensitivities• Difficulty playing with peers Early identification leads to earlier support. And early support improves long term outcomes.   What Has Changed in Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment in 2026? Ten years ago, therapy was often rigid and one dimensional. In 2026, treatment is: • Individualized rather than one size fits all• Multidisciplinary• Data tracked• Family centered• Neurodiversity informed Technology supports therapy, but skilled clinicians remain central.   Evidence Based Therapies That Show Results 1. Speech and Language Therapy Communication is often the biggest concern. Therapy targets: • Expressive language• Receptive understanding• Social communication• Conversation skills• Alternative and Augmentative Communication when needed Improved communication reduces frustration and behavioural challenges.   2. Occupational Therapy Many children with autism experience sensory processing challenges. Occupational therapy helps with: • Sensory regulation• Fine motor skills• Feeding challenges• Attention and focus• Daily living independence When sensory needs are regulated, learning improves.   3. Behavioural Interventions Structured behavioural programs help children: • Learn new skills• Reduce harmful behaviours• Improve compliance• Strengthen attention Modern behavioural therapy focuses on positive reinforcement and skill building, not punishment.   4. Parent Mediated Programs Research shows parent involvement significantly improves outcomes. Parents are trained to: • Create communication opportunities• Improve joint attention• Support emotional regulation• Embed therapy into daily routines This reduces dependency on sessions alone.   Technology in Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment In 2026, therapy integrates: • Teletherapy platforms• AI assisted screening tools• Digital progress tracking• Video based parent coaching• Interactive therapy applications Technology increases accessibility, especially for families in smaller cities. However, technology does not replace clinical expertise. It enhances it.   Addressing the Biggest Parent Fear: Will My Child Be Independent? This is the question behind most searches. The answer depends on: • Severity of support needs• Timing of intervention• Consistency of therapy• Family involvement• Educational environment With structured autism spectrum disorder treatment, children can: • Develop meaningful communication• Attend mainstream or supported schools• Build friendships• Gain vocational skills• Develop independence in adulthood Progress is possible. But it requires structure.   What Families Should Look For Before Choosing Therapy Not all therapy programs are equal. Ask these questions: • Is the approach evidence based?• Are goals measurable?• Are progress reports shared regularly?• Is parent training included?• Is the therapy individualized? Clarity reduces anxiety.   A Neurodiversity Affirming Approach to Autism Support In 2026, many professionals are moving toward a neurodiversity affirming model. This approach recognises autism as a natural variation in human brain development rather than a disorder that needs to be “fixed.” Instead of focusing on eliminating autistic traits, the goal is to support communication, reduce distress, and build independence while respecting a child’s identity. Language also shifts in this model. Many families and professionals prefer terms such as autism support or developmental intervention instead of disorder and treatment. At 1SpecialPlace, we align with this perspective. Our approach does not aim to change who a child is. We work to strengthen functional skills, emotional regulation, and participation in everyday life while preserving individuality, sensory preferences, and unique strengths. Therapy is collaborative, respectful, and built around empowerment rather than correction.   Autism Spectrum Disorder Support at 1SpecialPlace At 1SpecialPlace, autism spectrum disorder treatment is personalized, structured, and outcome focused. We begin with a comprehensive assessment. From there, we design individualized intervention plans that target communication, behaviour, sensory processing, and independence. Our programs include: • Speech therapy for expressive and social communication• Occupational therapy for sensory and adaptive skills• Behavioural interventions based on structured learning• Parent coaching and home strategy training• Continuous progress tracking We provide therapy through both telepractice and onsite hybrid centers, making expert care accessible across India and globally. Families receive structured roadmaps, clear goals, and measurable progress reviews. Our philosophy is simple: build skills, reduce distress, and empower families.   Frequently Asked Questions About Autism Spectrum Disorder Treatment Can autism be cured? Autism is not an illness. It cannot be cured. But therapy significantly improves functional skills. At what age should therapy start? As early as possible. Early intervention leads to stronger outcomes. Does teletherapy work? Yes. Research shows telepractice can be effective when structured and supervised by qualified professionals. How long does treatment continue? Autism spectrum disorder treatment is often long term, but intensity may change over time based on progress.   Final Thoughts Autism spectrum disorder treatment in 2026 is not about false promises. It is about: • Structured intervention• Skilled professionals• Parent empowerment• Technology supported access• Measurable outcomes The journey may feel overwhelming in the beginning. But with the right therapy plan and the right team, meaningful progress is possible. Hope today is not based on emotion alone. It is backed by science, structure, and experience.

Tips to Teach Sound Imitation for Toddlers Have you ever wondered how children acquire language? It begins early during infancy when children begin imitating their parents & caregivers. Imitation for toddlers occurs as early development and is a crucial building block to language development. Imitation for toddlers is important for the development of language, play, and social skills. Generally, a child will learn to imitate movements before they learn to imitate sounds through speech.  Even though motor imitation is not directly related to language development, teaching a child to imitate body movements is helpful because it teaches a child valuable imitation skills.  A child is usually ready for this type of learning process when they are able to move their hand independently of other parts of their body. Following are some tips to teach sound imitation for toddlers. ⦁ Be face to face with your child Let your child watch your face when you are making the sounds. When you do this, your child can see your mouth, its movements, and also facial expressions. If your child has difficulty in looking at your face, i.e., if they have limited eye contact or attention span, you can do activities to draw their attention & focus on your face while simultaneously vocalizing the sounds. Some examples would be holding a glittering object close to your face or a jingling of keys near your face. You can even use a favorite object of your child.  ⦁ Follow your child’s lead Cooing is when your baby makes playful sounds. They start cooing as early as 6 weeks. when they do this, imitate them. In the same way, When your baby is around 6 months old, they will start to babble. They will use simple consonant & vowel combinations like “/ma…ma…ma/”. When they do this, try imitating them. Use lip sounds such as words beginning with P, B, and M. Children usually pick up these sounds first. Add a vowel (a,e,i,o,u). You can use different combinations like ma…, mi…., bu….. Your child may not imitate you on the first attempt, but after a while, they may start closing their lips because they’re trying to imitate the lip sounds.  ⦁ Animal sounds as a facilitator Kids just loooove animal sounds!! You can show them videos or action songs where there are animals on the farm. Each animal gets his own turn to make the sounds. You can also use costumes to dress up as different animals & make animal sounds! Kids love these activities and tend to imitate animal sounds very well for starters. Make this animal sounds with them. This facilitates imitation in toddlers. Be enthusiastic & silly. Have a lot of fun! ⦁ Imitate your child’s actions  When your child does some actions, imitate them. You can use action songs available online. When you are starting off, it is important to pick simple action songs. Actions songs can be of any category like body parts, animal sounds, etc. Imitate each action slowly & one at a time. Repeat the activity to strengthen the imitation skills. They will slowly start imitating the sounds as words as you repeat these activities.  Sing a song, then pause & let them fill in the last word. You can sing “When you’re happy & you know it, (pause) ______ your hands”. Here, your child will say “Clap. This is the part where you are transitioning from imitation to sound/ word production on cueing.  ⦁ Imitate sounds, actions  & facial expressions Whenever your child makes some spontaneous vocalizations, you can start off by imitating them. When you start imitating them, they will understand what you are trying to do. They will then try to imitate. In this way, you can take turns & imitate one another. Imitate your child’s actions. For example, when your child is eating you can your belly & say “Yummmy, mmmm”. You can then show your child how to do it. You can also imitate facial expressions. Show them a happy face by making it, you can use a mirror too!. Let your child imitate you. Make silly faces & enjoy your time imitating your child.  ⦁ Use People games  People games are fun-filled physical activities that you do with your little one. Some examples included Pat-a-cake, Peek-a-boo, Ring around the Rosie, etc. These games are repetitive in nature. They help not only imitation but also in play, interaction & learning new things. Even a simple “Hi-Five” works! When you are doing the “Hi-Five”, exaggerate the actions. you can fall down after the “Hi-Five” by saying ” Oh that was a very strong one! You are very strong”. When children know that there is a consequence to an action, they will be tempted to try it again. Therefore improving on imitation. Add sounds & words when you high five “Yay” or “Ouch”.  ⦁ Reinforce all sounds  Give your child rewards like (Good job!) each time they produce any sound. Pick from a variety of different categories like toys, stickers, foods, etc. to be the rewards. For every sound that they imitate, you can give them a token or reward. Slowly fade the rewards or help the child collect those reinforcers in exchange for a little surprise such as favorite chocolate or treat at the end of the day. Tips for Teaching turn-taking & Imitation for communication  #ParentingTips

Tips & Tricks for Speaking “R”  Can you try saying “R”? If you tried that now, how many of you got it right? If it’s a ‘yes’, cheers to you, yay! But many of us have experience with a child who has struggled with his or her /r/ sound. Clinicians in the field of speech-language pathology have considered this as the trickiest sound to correct. Never the less we are here to help you or your child to get the “R” produced correctly. On that note, I would like to share a few tips and exercises to get that “R” correct. Typical development of articulation in children Initially attempt demonstrating to the kid what a typical /r/ feels like. you’ll be able to try this by sustaining the /r/ sound so inform the kid that the /r/ sound is created by the tip of the tongue is to be slightly curled within the middle. Emphasize that the tongue does not touch any structures within the mouth, however is near to the highest of the mouth. it’s going to be troublesome for a younger kid to conceive data therefore associate degree illustration of an equivalent will facilitate. There are  2 ways to mention /r/ it either the retroflexed/r/ or bunched/r/ (as in the image). Articulation disorder Hand analogy What you will do is hold your left hand in a flattened horizontal position with the palm facing down. Next, place your right hand beneath the left in order that the palms face one another. The left represents the surface and thus the right hand beneath the left represents the tongue. Keep your left still, and together with your right move it slightly back and curl the fingers up in order that they virtually touch the palm of the left. Explain to the child, ‘This is what your tongue ought to be doing So the first and foremost thing needed to get it right is “Patience”.  Yes, you heard it right. The whole process of correcting “R” does not happen in a day. Children may say some sounds in the wrong way as they learn to talk. They learn some sounds earlier, like p, m, or w. Other sounds take longer to learn, like/r/, /z/, or/ th/. A child who does not say sounds by the expected ages may have a speech sound disorder If your child is just 5 years and if you find him saying “R” incorrectly, you need not worry; instead just wait up to age 7. This is because each sound has an age for mastery and the “R” sound as is by age 7. If they continue to struggle even after the age of mastery then consider the following guidelines. Articulation Therapy Guide A few tricks to get the  Correct “r” Your articulators (tongue, lips, and jaw) have muscles, and they are essential for the correct production of speech sounds. A lot of times the incorrect production of “R” is due to the weakness of the tongue. So the tongue is a muscle just like your biceps, we usually work out for biceps but here let’s focus on strengthening the tongue. You can use a vibrating brush to stimulate the sides of the tongue. This is going to improve the input to the tongue and improve its strength and coordination. Take your child’s favorite cookie or candy (it can be anything your child can tolerate or whatever their favorite eatery is). Then you have to make them hold the cookie up with their tongue right behind the upper teeth. For this, you should also use a visual timer like an hourglass or so. A target can be set starting from 10 s to 1 minute. So if you can hold the cookie for a minute, practicing it 3 times a day should be good enough. You have to monitor the time they can hold and the time should be tracked. E.g., If your child can sustain for 30 s then next he can aim for 40 -45 sand so on. I am sure your child will love this as he will be getting the cookie after the trial. **Make sure they don’t choke, hence practice this under your utmost supervision You can also use a little jam/sauce or even peanut butter to apply it to your child’s roof of his mouth. Then you need to prompt him to lick them up by sweeping his tongue right from behind his teeth to the softer part of the roof. You can make some tongue wiggles to make funny faces making sure the tongue moves in all directions. Anything you do to your tongue is stimulating it and thereby improving its strength and coordination. **We can speed things up once the articulators are consistent. Well, if you have observed we do not need to think about how a sound is produced but some children need to, so it’s all about making muscle memory, and here lies the importance of practice. They need to practice it rigorously and make the movements more natural so that they don’t need to think about it anymore before producing the sound. Here are some tricks to ease the production of “R”: Have child growl like a tiger (grrrr), be a rooster (ER-er-ER-er-ERRRRR), or a loud truck (ERRRRRRN). If the child can imitate any of those sounds, you may have an ‘r’ sound to start with. If it’s for the retroflex /r/, you can use a spoon or a lollypop to point to the roof of his mouth (center of the roof of the mouth)  and ask him to curl his tongue till there. For the bunched /r/, have the child feel the position of the tongue as “e” is produced. Make sure the lips are spread while producing “e”. Then work toward ‘r’ by lifting the tongue tip and lowering the back of the tongue. Carry out the same with words starting with “r”, having vowels in between, and ending with “k” or “g”. This eases the production because the tongue tip remains in the same position as “r” and does not involve many motor movements of the tongue except for the tongue tip and back of the tongue. Make sure the lips are wide openE.g. rag, reg, rog, rig, rug,rak,rek, rok, rik,ruk is considered relatively easy instead of rat, rot, etc. where the tongue tip has multiple movements involved to produce the words. For the retroflex /r/, you can also make your child slide their tongue, right from behind the teeth(where you keep it to produce /l/) to the middle of the roof (of the mouth), and release it there to produce /r/.  For e.g, try saying ‘llllllllrrrrr’. This is called shaping from /l/ to /r/. Make them sweep the roof of  the mouth with  tongue while saying ‘ah’. When it reaches the middle of the roof, ask  to stop.At this position, ask them to continue vocalization and bring the tip down slightly.- This should produce “ar”. Make it fun and Engaging Practicing the above techniques to get the /r/ correct at home can turn out to be slightly boring for some children but I am sure they will love to do as instructed if you give them appropriate praises and rewards for their effort. Schedule specific time every day to work on articulation of speech sounds. You need not sit across a table like you probably would have noticed in a traditional speech therapy setup; instead, you can convert your simple leisure time to spend quality time with your child even when your kid is playing or bathing or even during a long drive. Practicing often will facilitate faster learning. Every child is different and progress may be noted in a few days to weeks. It all depends on how well the child can follow oral instructions, understands correct tongue positioning, and frequency of practice. Materials for articulation therapy You can make a difference Remember! Somebody forcing you to talk is not fun always. You have to make it more fun and interesting by giving more rewards for your child’s performance and by encouraging him to practice until perfection. Verbal praises with exclamations like “Wow! That was great, you said that well, very well-tried, keep it up! etc. can be used along with the reward system. Also, make sure you reward only the correct production else the child will end up thinking his production is correct and there is no need for practice. Kids imitate their parents and their behavior models. Carry on a conversation and be patient. Your child wants to communicate and be understood. Remember every child is different and unique Hence what works for one may not turn out the same for another child. Keep trying and seek professional help when in doubt. #Apraxia #misarticulation

Toilet Training: An SLPs perspective Toilet Training is an important milestone for a child to achieve. Many parents would fret over this, especially when the child is getting ready to begin (play)school. Children are typically ready for toilet training around the age of two. A child’s physical and emotional readiness must be considered before beginning the training process. As a Speech-language pathologist, I see many ways in which speech and language techniques can be used to assist the toilet training routine. Here is how: 1. Building an understanding about the toilet and the use of it is an important aspect of toilet training. Several ways to strengthen receptive skills (i.e. understanding) include Labeling the toilet door. Use a visual along with the name on the door of the toilet the child will be taken to. This will make sure s/he gets familiar with where s/he is being taken for passing urine or motion. Preparing the child for toileting. The child needs to know what is going to happen when s/he is being toilet trained. This means, preparing the child by reading books and/or using photos. Through them, talk to the child about how everyone uses the toilet from time to time. It should also explain how to tell when one needs to use the toilet, and that one is to sit on the seat, wash hands and even clean up after an accident. Several books on potty training are available for children, however, you can always make your own and customize it to your child’s environment. Personally, I like making the book with the child and with photos of his own house and environment. Keeping visuals ready. There are several steps involved in using the toilet. It is easiest to have the steps visually available for the child to see while s/he is in the toilet. It can be shown through photos or drawings that the child can relate to.  Going over the photos/drawings before using the toilet or while using it, can be helpful to remind him/her what is to be done e.g. flushing toilet, washing hands, closing door etc. 2. While working on receptive skills, there is a need to have an avenue to let the child express the needs to use the toilet. It can be done in the following ways Teaching gestures. When a child is unable to use words to express a need, the use of gestures is quite important. Teaching the child simple gestures for ‘toilet’ can be one way to get him/ her to express himself when he needs to use it. It is important to let the child imitate the gesture, at first, every time s/he is taken to the toilet. Over time, the child may be able to pick up the same gestures and use it independently. Hearing words about toileting, often. The child needs to hear words about toileting consistently, whenever s/he is taken to use the toilet. This is important as it provides the child with the language environment needed for him/her to start using it in his / her own speech. Begin with simple words such as – toilet time, pee pee, poo, sit, flush, wash etc. With time, and as the child begins to use the simple words – move towards using phrases and then sentences e.g. Going to the toilet, Time to pee, Sit on the toilet (seat), etc. Don’t forget to use words of praise and reinforcements. This will be useful in the child using positive words him/herself. Using words of emotions. Many times, the use of emotional words is forgotten during the process of toilet training. It is, in my opinion, quite important to use these words – since a child may be feeling a lot of things. It may include words like – happy, embarrassed etc. Use them at appropriate times through the process, but importantly not in a way to ‘shame’ the child. By using these words, a child will start relating and then using them too. Allow the child to use words of praise which are modeled by you. Praising the little steps towards being toilet trained is crucial. For instance, removing of pants/diapers, assisting in cleaning up a toilet accident – all requires praise. I would exaggerate my praise quite often, during the initial stages of toilet training and then, over time, space out my praises and bring it in for using the toilet. Let these tips begin to guide the toilet training process. Good luck! *** Tell us what’s worked for your child during the toilet training process? We’d love to hear from you. *** Subscribe to us to receive more articles like this.

Articulation Therapy: Four Go-To Materials Articulation Therapy – The inability to pronounce sounds correctly in speech can be corrected through articulation therapy. It must be multisensorial as well as fun! ( Read more about these basics in the article here ). However, it requires precision of placement, good coordination and movement of articulators. There are several items that would make an articulation therapy effective yet interesting. When saying each slowly, think about where your lips and tongue are positioned and what they are doing. Also, try to feel where the air from your throat is going while saying each sound. My four go-to materials for articulation therapy are: 1. Mirror The power of a mirror cannot be undermined in articulation therapy! It provides good feedback to the child/individual about the placement of the articulators. I’d like to have mirrors of different sizes available. Small ones that can be used under the nose help to get the child to see the mist on it forming from nasal sounds (like /n/). Mid-sized ones are useful to show the mouth or whole face during the production of the sound. This is the most important mirror and is a must when working on therapy. A large one for the whole body when we are having a lot of movement fun but also are working on sound production! Read a detailed blog on Articulation Therapy: A Beginner’s Guide In tele-practice, the use of a mirror is replaced by the camera in the computer or tablet. However, parents should use the mirrors for practice at home. 2. Puppets. These are a brilliant way to make a session fun and many times interactive. Puppets or even stuffed toys where the mouth can move are ideal. They help a child see the mouth movement easily. If a tongue is a part of the face, that makes it even better. However, many times just taped pink paper can do the trick! Using a puppet or a toy character that the child likes can be even more encouraging and engaging for the child in the session. Drawing board. A drawing board, (chalkboard or magic) slate, paper with pen or pencil are used to do several things in an articulation therapy session. They help to (a) Draw out tongue positions in the mouth, (b) draw the words that are to be said, and even help (c) create quick games. If the child is using the computer or tablet for practice, the drawing or paint app can be used between the therapist/parent and the child. In tele-practice, a whiteboard on the computer is mostly used. It adds another level or dimension to therapy since you can add board games to play or even colorful pictures from the net and then draw over them to create fun games while practicing sounds. A word list: After a sound is established, the next step is to work on the sound at the word level. A word list is created for the target sound (i.e. the sound that is being worked on). The word would have the sound in the beginning, middle and/or end. This list is wonderful for practicing the sound, and, it can be incorporated in games or used for drills. How do I make a list for articulation therapy, you ask? Here are different ways to do the same. Use the therapists: This is the easiest beginning for the same. It gives you, the parent, the idea of how the list should be and what it should focus on. It also strengthens the target sound in the words that have already been practiced in the speech therapy session. However, you must move from this list to others also! Build one with words your child knows: Make a list of words with the target sound that your child knows. Build the list with your child! Make it a fun activity. Take guidance from your speech therapist to know where the target sound should be in the word (e.g. beginning, middle or ending). For example – The parent can ask “Let’s say words that begin with sound /b/” – Child says “bus, ball, bubble”. These will then be added to the list. Add more words you know the child knows – e.g. brown, blue, bus. Keep the list with meaningful words. Preferably simple words at first. Move to complex ones, over time. Create similar lists with the sound in the middle or end (based on whether it is required). Making up words (meaningless words): To practice the sound, even meaningless words can be used. They can be such as ‘bup, bip’ for the /b/ sound. The word lists can be a lot of fun for a child if used well in a session! Online materials: Websites, Pinterest have a lot of lists available that can be used. You must ensure that the list remains useful for the child, relevant to the understanding of the child as well as fun! Word lists are used to teach the sound beyond syllable level. There would be a need to practice along sentence and story level and then within conversations also. Words from the list can be incorporated at each of these levels. *** Articulation therapy can use many more materials. It’s important to keep it engaging and fun for the child! Let these materials be a beginning for you and the child! *** Please note that these are basic guidelines for articulation therapy. A child’s individual assessment results would guide a speech therapist for specific inputs which may include working on listening to sound and sound pairs or practicing specific sounds before the other (different from above) etc. Subscribe with us to receive articles related to Articulation therapy in your inbox! Leave a comment or feedback on the article! We’d love to hear from you 🙂 #articulationtherapy #misarticulations #speechtherapist

Top 5 AAC activities Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) activities are an amazing way for your child to learn language. Not only the child but also the family members can join in and participate in the activities. These activities promote not only language development, but also social interaction, turn-taking, and communication. Every activity is an opportunity to model language to the child. This blog post will help you with some top fun-filled activities to improve on the core and fringe word vocabulary using AAC activities. Have fun!! Snakes & Ladders https://www.ymimports.com/pages/how-to-play-snakes-and-ladders Snakes and Ladders is a fun game that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age. When incorporating this game for AAC users, it is very important to use a combination of core and fringe words. You can use various targeted core words such as Up, Go, Down, Turn, Play, etc. If your child is using two-word combinations, then you can go for “Go up”, “Your Turn”, etc. Some of the fringe words that you can use include the numbers on the board and colors of the tokens. Model these words as you play the game. Encourage others in the family to play as well with your child. Remember to give time to the child when playing the game & communicating with the AAC. UNO https://www.popsugar.com/family/photo-gallery/46016354/image/47716332/Uno-Showdown UNO is another activity that can be used using AAC. Not only does it help with language development, but also turn-taking skills. Various core words such as Put, Take, Next, Play, etc. can be used. Fringe words can also be used such as the different colors of the cards and numbers. You can model the words as you go on. Keep adding new words to your child’s vocabulary. Initially, keep a list of target words. Once your child starts gaining independence in using those words, move on to the next set of targeted words. Potato Head https://in.pinterest.com/pin/131659989079036029/ Mr. Potato head is an activity that can be done with a focus on different core words. You can use the Potato head to model various questions such as “Who, What, Where” etc. Different prepositions can also be targeted such as “On, In, Above” etc. Fringe words such as body parts, shapes, colors can be targeted along with core words. Using this activity, your child will understand the different body parts & functions. Keep modeling the words using the AAC in meaningful contexts. I Spy https://www.tinytap.com/activities/g3qzp/play/playing-i-spy-city-en-uk I Spy is a fun activity that can be done with kids. You can say the phrase “I spy with my little eyes, I see a cup”. You can name any target word that you want to use on your AAC device. Keep a setlist of words ready. You can make ‘I spy’ activities using flashcards, items in a tray, or even YouTube videos. You can also decide whether you want to model one or more words depending on the level of communication of your child. Tell-a-tale https://www.theboardgamefamily.com/telltalecards/ In this activity, you can choose some pictures. You will need to add these pictures up so that you can narrate a story. The first person picks up a picture and says the first story of the sentence. Then the next player adds the next sentence by picking another picture. In this way, you can create more sentences by taking turns. Keep modeling the words which you want to target during the activity. This is a great game to play with AAC users as it helps them make sentences while also giving them time to think about the next sentence. There are various other AAC activities that you can use. There are so many ideas and so many ways in which we can improve communication for AAC users. Keep finding new activities to make AAC learning fun and effective. Make learning fun!!! #AACactivities

Top 5 Learning Apps for Kids The education business has seen a massive upheaval in the previous few decades. Learning has been much more accessible as a result of the introduction of apps, making it much more enjoyable for students of all ages. Educational apps are being used to bridge the communication gap between parents and teachers, as well as between children and teachers. Childhood is a crucial period for learning. And, as youngsters become increasingly intelligent, there is a pressing need to provide new, advanced learning tools and approaches. Let’s have a look at the Top 5 Learning Apps for Kids in this article. Edoki Academy Edoki Academy is a learning app. It uses the Montessori Method of self-directed learning. This app is designed to help children develop logic and reasoning skills. You can use this app with children from 3-7 years of age. It is a simple app to use. You have various categories such as Math, Language, Creativity, Literacy, Shapes and Colours, Drawing, Nursey rhymes, Music, Practical Life, Discovery, and other bundles. Edoki Academy has almost more than 1000 activities. It also includes 30+ learning apps online. It has a fun “reward“system for increased motivation. The Edoki Academy app promises smart and playful screen time, superior user experience, and a curriculum designed by certified Montessori teachers. ABCmouse.com The ABCmouse.com app is designed for pre-schoolers. You can use the learning apps for students from 2-8 years of age. The app contains hundreds of interactive games, videos, and activities. The app includes various activities such as animations, books, songs, puzzles, art, and printables. It has 4 main categories: Reading, Math, Science and Art & Colours. You can use this app to learn from anywhere. The ABCmouse.com app has 10 levels with over 850 lessons. You can use the learning apps for toddlers on smartphones, tablets, and computers. The app has inbuilt progress tracking for each category mentioned above. ABCmouse.com encourages children to complete learning activities by rewarding them with tickets. You can also use a customizable avatar that resembles your child within the app. The ABCmouse.com app truly is an early learning academy. Epic! Epic! is one of the best reading apps for kids. You can use this app for children between 2-12 years of age. The Epic! The library contains over 40,000 books, audiobooks, and learning videos for children. It includes a read-to-me feature for early readers who are still learning to read. This app has some amazing features. You can personalize your child’s daily reading. The app makes daily age and level-appropriate recommendations for your child. You get these recommendations based on your child’s interests. Also, you can track your child’s progress. You can see what books your child likes, the amount of time spent, and much more. Epic! Assures quality books that your children will love. You can use Epic! As it is easy to access. Also, do not forget to check out the Epic! Blog for top book recommendations. Homer Learn & Grow Homer is an early learning program app. A team of experts has designed this app. The Homer Learn & Grow app can be used with children from 2-8 years of age. The app includes personalized interactive lessons, stories, and activities by skill level, age, and interests. It is fun and flexible to use with kids. You can incorporate the activities into your child’s daily routines. It has the following key features. It has activities across subjects such as Reading, Math, Social Emotional Learning, Creativity, and Thinking Skills.  Also, it has hundreds of stories and characters your child will love— from classics like Little Red Riding Hood to favorites like Thomas the Train. With one membership, you can use up to 4 customizable profiles. The app also has additional resources for parents, including printables, videos, activities, and expert learning tips. And the best thing about this online learning app is that it is kid-friendly and Ad-free. Khan Academy Kids The Khan Academy Kids app is designed by experts in childhood education. The app boasts of a robust curriculum for the domains which include math, reading, phonics, writing, social-emotional development, and more. You can access thousands of lessons, books, activities, and games. The games and activities are fun to play and are highly interactive in nature. All these are designed for children attending preschool up to the second grade. You can use this app to learn at school or even at home. You can customize the activities for your child and choose lessons accordingly. Khan Academy Kids is a free app. It is always updated by adding new content to keep young kids engaged while learning. Remember, the best learning apps allow children to actively engage and learn information. They do not distract. Choose the best online learning app for your child based on their interest and learning requirements. Home Learning Activity Kit for Children