The Importance of Building Connections

Meet Michelle, Risa, and Stephanie—the dynamic trio behind NYC Speechies! These passionate SLPs saw a gap in the market for middle and high school speech and language resources on TPT and decided to fill it. What started as a plan to create enough materials for just one school year has grown into an impressive collection of over 400 resources by 2024. NYC Speechies love nothing more than connecting with fellow SLPs and educators, helping them navigate the world of speech and language for older students. They've expanded their reach even further with workshops and their coaching business, Speechies Connect, where they empower and support other SLPs. Join us as we dive into their incredible journey!

Bullet Points to Discuss:

• ice breakers and the importance of establishing rapport with therapist and group members at the beginning of the year
• creating a group atmosphere where they want to come back, feel accepted, and heard
• engaging mixed groups

Here’s what we learned:

• Strategies for building connections with high school students in speech therapy.
• Challenges and rewards of working with older students in therapy settings.
• Importance of establishing trust and rapport with students.
• Incorporating students' personal goals and interests into therapy sessions.
• Utilizing icebreakers and interactive activities to foster a positive environment.
• Discussing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with students to empower them.
• The significance of collaboration with educators and school staff.
• Flexibility and patience in adapting to students' emotional needs and challenges.
• Building a supportive community among speech-language pathologists for professional growth.

Learn more about NYC Speechies: 

Check out the NYC Speechies’ Website

Follow them on Instagram @nycspeechies or Facebook

Check them out on Pinterest

Visit their TPT store

Freebie Links

A FREEBIE from the NYC Speechies!

Learn more about Hallie Sherman and SLP:

📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/

🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup

Subscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets