Fun Speech and Language Games for Busy Moms And Their Kids
As busy moms, we’re always on the go. Between work, errands, and family time, it can feel like there’s never enough time to focus on speech and language development. But the good news is, you don’t need to carve out extra time. You can easily play fun language games with your child in everyday moments! […]
What’s Holding You Back from Accent Reduction? Overcoming Common Hesitations
You’ve likely heard about the benefits of accent reduction—improved communication, increased confidence, and even new career opportunities. Yet, like many, you might still have hesitations to take that next step. If you’ve ever wondered why you’re holding back, this post is for you. Let’s explore people’s most common concerns and how you can overcome them […]
Why Am I Asked to Repeat Myself?
Why Am I Asked to Repeat Myself? Understanding the Common Causes and Solutions As an accent reduction coach and speech-language pathologist, I’ve worked with many individuals who are frequently asked to repeat what they’ve just said. This experience can be frustrating and discouraging, especially in personal and professional settings. Understanding the common causes behind this […]
Mastering American Vowels
American vowels and diphthongs are the essential notes that create the beautiful symphony of American English. From the northern plains to the southern coasts, the diverse and distinctive vowel sounds contribute to the rich tapestry of accents that characterize the United States. Understanding the Vowel System American English showcases a multifaceted vowel system, encompassing both […]
Mastering Presentations: Inspire Confidence!
Ever felt like you could improve your presentation skills? Do you need a boost? Whether it’s communicating clearly or captivating your audience, mastering the art of presentation is key to success. Understanding Listener Fatigue: Overcoming Language Barriers Ever felt exhausted from trying to understand someone because of how they speak? That’s “listener fatigue.” It […]
Speak English Confidently: Unlock Your Potential
Let’s delve into the empowering journey of speaking English confidently. If you’ve ever felt hesitant or unsure when communicating in English, you’re not alone. But fear not! This blog is your beacon of hope, offering practical strategies, heartfelt encouragement, and inspiring success stories to propel you toward newfound confidence and fluency. Understanding the Fear: Many […]
The Power of Pronunciation: Elevate Your Speech
Do you ever find yourself struggling to be understood by others, despite your fluency in English? The key to clear communication may lie in improving your pronunciation. Let’s dive into the world of American pronunciation training, also known as accent reduction, and explore how you can elevate your speech in American English. A Path […]
Beyond Speaking Slowly
Have you ever tried speaking slowly, hoping it would improve your communication skills, only to find limited success, especially if you have an accent? Many people who face language barriers or accents have this challenge. While adjusting the pace can be helpful, mastering various pronunciation, stress patterns and more is essential for clearer and more […]
🌟 Embracing Being Bilingual 🌟
Surprisingly, it wasn’t always believed that being bilingual was a benefit. In SLP grad school, I was taught that parents should stick to speaking only English at home for children with English as a second language. The rationale being that managing two languages concurrently could overwhelm a child already grappling with speech and language issues. […]
Impact of Accents on Self-Perception: Insights from “It’s a Game Show”
Have you ever considered the profound influence of accents on our self-perception and self-esteem? Recently, I stumbled upon an episode of This American Life titled “It’s a Game Show” (Episode 786), which delved into the intricate dynamics of accents in the United States. Although the episode is meant to be funny, as an accent reduction […]
Why Consistency Matters in Speech and Accent Classes
We all have been told before when you are starting a new workout routine or learning to play an instrument, consistency matters. How many times have you started a new skill and you didn’t practice consistently and didn’t make the progress you hoped? The same is true when you are doing speech therapy or […]
Accent Reduction Coaching is a Stellar New Year’s Resolution
Embrace Confidence and Clarity: Why Starting Accent Reduction Coaching is a Stellar New Year’s Resolution 🎆 As the New Year approaches, many contemplate resolutions aimed at personal and professional growth. While the classic goals of hitting the gym or learning a new skill are admirable, one often overlooked resolution can have a profound impact on […]
4 Reasons Adults Struggle with Pronunciation in a New Language
Have you ever wondered why certain sounds are challenging to pronounce when learning a new language? In American English accent reduction coaching, we specifically focus on these specific speech pronunciation challenges. We help you speak clearly and confidently. But there are generally 4 reasons that hamper one’s ability to learn to speak a new language […]
Why Children May Struggle to Pronounce Sounds?
Why a child struggles to pronounce sounds is not a simple answer. In the intricate dance of language, mastering pronunciation is akin to fitting together the pieces of a linguistic puzzle. The developmental, biological, learned, and cultural aspects all come into play. Let’s delve into why some individuals encounter challenges in learning specific sounds. […]
Linking Words in American English: Unlocking Fluent Communication 🔗
Linking words seamlessly is a vital element in sounding natural in the vibrant tapestry of American English. The art of linking words is a pivotal component to knowing how words flow together in American English and achieving a natural and professional cadence in American English. Let’s dive into tips to refine your communication, making it more polished […]
Commonly Mistaken Words- Master English Language Nuances
“Let’s be real—how many times have we all stumbled over words, confused words, or pronounced them wrong? I’m right there with you, and I work in the field of language! Language can be a bit of a maze, with its tricky nuances and unexpected twists. HOMOPHONES Take, for instance, those pesky homophones, words that […]
Understanding American Accents
Understanding American accents can be daunting for non-native speakers. There is a wide range in the “accent” given that the United States is a melting pot of cultures and regional dialects, which adds to the linguistic richness but also presents challenges. Insights and Tips to help you navigate the diverse American accent landscape: 👂 Challenge 1: […]
Understanding Speech-Language Terms- Let’s Define Them!
Ever felt like you’re wading through a sea of terms when it comes to speech-language therapy terms? I get it! All those technical terms can be a bit overwhelming. In this blog post, we’re going to break down some of those fancy terms into everyday language, so you can navigate the world of speech therapy […]
Guide to Producing the “R” Sound
Producing the”R” sound is one of the most commonly mispronounced sounds. In fact, it can be surprisingly tricky to master. Whether your child struggles to pronounce “R” correctly or you are learning a new language, saying the sound “R” accurately can significantly enhance one’s communication skills. Understanding the Variability of “R” Sounds Before we dive […]
Why Would Someone Want to Change or Modify Their Accent?
Ever wondered why someone might want to change or give their accent a little makeover? Well, if you’re living in your hometown, you’re probably set, but for those of us who’ve ventured to new places, our accent can play a role in how we communicate. Language is like our trusty sidekick, shaping the way we […]