We have all been in a parent meeting that involved hard to hear news. Either we avoid the uncomfortable conversation, make mistakes in the delivery or conduct a thoughtful and empathetic dialogue. Parish staff will provide participants with tools to navigate tough talks with first-hand accounts, research and clinical experience.

Preschool teachers are often the first professionals to observe a child in a structured group learning environment. This presentation will help you understand typical language development and communication delays, as well as identification of early indicators that a child may be on the autism spectrum. You will learn strategies to help these children while they are waiting for services and how to increase your confidence in thoughtfully and empathetically sharing your concerns with your student’s families.

Learn the relationship between oral and written communication skills. This presentation will go over basic definitions of speech and language, then discuss how deficits in oral language may have later impact on reading, writing and learning.

Children learn best when they demonstrate the ability to self-regulate in many areas, one of which is emotional regulation. Play Therapists help children understand, process and express emotions through the natural language of play. Learn what Play Therapy is and insights into how to support children’s emotional needs in the classroom.