The Language of Play - Kids that Listen, Speech Therapy, Language Development, Early Intervention

Hey Friends~ 

It's national reading month - or "I love to read" month! So we are taking a quick stop in our series to focus on reading, but not only reading, but how reading can support speech sound development!

Is your child learning how to read? Are you a bit puzzled knowing HOW to help them read?  

If that is you you will love today’s episode as we talk with a reading specialist on the very beginning of reading!  You will learn how to get the ball rolling and how to practice in your daily life in a way that is supportive and not overloading.

Always cheering you on! 

Dinalynn

 

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected]

Comment? Question?  Leave me a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play

WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

 

ABOUT THE GUEST: Melanie Jeffrey is a phonics fanatic, classroom teacher, and host of the Phonics Rules for Kids podcast. Trained in phonics instruction for children ages 4–9, she has helped hundreds of kids learn to read. Today she equips moms with simple phonics tools they can use at home so their Kindergarten through 3rd grade children become confident readers.  

CONTACT THE GUEST:   [email protected]

Melanie's podcast: Phonics Rules for Kids 

FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15Zv7fb4sPD/

FREEBIE READING QUIZ - Can Your Child Read This? https://phonics-rules-for-kids-2.kit.com/4647399525

Printable Kindergarten Phonics Curriculum: https://www.phonicsrulesforkids.com/course/

Website: https://www.phonicsrulesforkids.com

Dinalynn on Phonics Rules for Kids:  52. Child Struggling with 'L' and 'R' Sounds? Here's HOW to Help with Speech Pathologist, Dinalynn Rosenbush  

 

YOUR NEXT STEPS:

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup

To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]

 

THE SERIES "WHEN COMMUNICATION IS HARD" 

253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

255 When Communication Is Hard: Speech Sound Disorders & Phonological Delays, part 3

3 EPISODES ON READING:

68 Do You Know How to Practice Early Reading Skills? Shannon Ali Shares How to Easily Incorporate Play and Practice

230 Daniela Feldhausen: Speech Sounds and Reading Are Linked. Fun Ways Parents and Educators Can Help

248 Dr. Emily Levy: Effectively Teach Reading with Orton Gillingham & Multi-Sensory Techniques

 

SPONSORS & PARTNERS: 

The Lucky Find Bundle is specifically created for parents of children with unique needs — kids with big feelings, sensory differences, learning challenges, executive functioning struggles, emotional regulation needs, or who are simply wired differently. Mark your calendar - this free gift bundle will be open March 11-17.  Sign up for my newsletter so you don’t miss the links! https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

 

WE’VE MADE IT EASY FOR YOU! 

Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play

Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

Hey Friends~ 

If your child’s speech is hard to understand, uses unusual patterns, or sounds younger than their age, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re looking at speech sound disorders, phonological delays, and articulation challenges. I’ll help you sort out what’s developmental, what might need support, and how everyday play can support clearer speech—without correcting every word.

Always cheering you on! 

Dinalynn

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected]

COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play

WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE:  

February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors 

Constance Lewis: Emotions   Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/

 226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings

Jason Heffler: Children's Speech Disorders   Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler

214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience

Terry Lilga:  Rhyming   Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/

218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words

Claire Miller: Storytelling With Kids   Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk

 243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection

Rella B:  Life Lessons   Connect:  https://rellabbooks.com/

 

252 Rella B: You Get the Work Done, They Think It’s Play - Turning Chores Into Connection

 

“Bye to Burnout Bundle” for the Homeschool Moms
Sign up for Resources! Included is your entrance into my talk with Q&A titled, “Does My Homeschool Child Qualify for Speech Therapy?” I will talk plainly about qualifications and answer your questions.  Bundle Quick Link: https://www.maliaphelpswaller.com/bye-to-burnout-bundle

 

Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!  

2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿
✔ Meaningful conversations, ✔ Nature-based experiences, ✔ Build courage + confidence, ✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)  Learn more:  https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat

Use checkout code for your savings (Valid thru Feb 28, 2026)
PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket

PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four
Listen to 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!

 

Also Mentioned in this episode: 
154 A Single Father of Triplets Shares His Success Story. 

253 When Communication Is Hard: An Overview for Parents of Children with Speech or Language Struggles, part 1

254 When Communication Is Hard: Childhood Apraxia of Speech CAS & Motor Speech Disorders, part 2

YOUR NEXT STEPS:  

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

“Play is…” downloadable:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662

Newsletter Sign up:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup

For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]

 

SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW, SPONSOR, DONATE: 

Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play

Subscribe & Follow in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Hey Friends~ 

This episode is part 2 of the series “When Communication is Hard.”   

Today we’re talking about childhood apraxia of speech and other motor speech disorders—what they are, and why speech can be so effort-filled for some kids. If your child knows what they want to say but can’t consistently get the words out, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. 

We’ll also talk about why “just practice” often backfires and what kinds of support actually help at home.

I am glad you are here, your child will be, too! 

Always cheering you on! 

Dinalynn

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected]

COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play

WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

 

MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE:  

February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors 

Constance Lewis: Emotions   Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/

Jason Heffler: Children's Speech Disorders   Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler

Terry Lilga:  Rhyming   Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/

Claire Miller: Storytelling With Kids   Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk  

Rella B:  Life Lessons   Connect:  https://rellabbooks.com/

 

“Bye to Burnout Bundle” for the Homeschool Moms
Sign up for Resources! Included is your entrance into my talk with Q&A titled, “Does My Homeschool Child Qualify for Speech Therapy?” I will talk plainly about qualifications and answer your questions.  Bundle Quick Link: https://www.maliaphelpswaller.com/bye-to-burnout-bundle

Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!  

2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿
✔ Meaningful conversations, ✔ Nature-based experiences, ✔ Build courage + confidence, ✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)  Learn more:  https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat

Use checkout code for your savings (Valid thru Feb 28, 2026)
PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket

PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four
Listen to 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!

 

IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, HERE ARE OTHER AUTHOR YOU WILL ENJOY:

226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings

214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience

218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words

243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection

252 Rella B: You Get the Work Done, They Think It’s Play - Turning Chores Into Connection

 

YOUR NEXT STEPS:  

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

“Play is…” downloadable:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662

Newsletter Sign up:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup

For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]

 

SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW, SPONSOR, DONATE: 

Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play

Subscribe & Follow in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Hey Friends~ 

If you’ve ever wondered why communication feels hard for your child—and confusing for you—this series is for you.
In this opening conversation, I’m laying the groundwork for the entire series titled, “When Communication Is Hard”.  We’ll talk about the many reasons communication can break down PLUS  strategies that will help you identify what is happening and something to try!  This podcast is to help those who want to know more and do what is EFFECTIVE - not just do more.  

Welcome to this series  titled, “When Communication Is Hard.”
My goals are simple: to help you feel oriented, not blamed,  to get a bigger picture so you feel less alone, and of course, to feel confident with strategies that work!

Always cheering you on! 

Dinalynn

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected]

COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play

WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE:  

February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors 

Constance Lewis: Emotions   Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/

Jason Heffler: Children's Speech Disorders   Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler

Terry Lilga:  Rhyming   Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/

Claire Miller: Storytelling With Kids   Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk  

Rella B:  Life Lessons   Connect:  https://rellabbooks.com/

 

“Bye to Burnout Bundle” for the Homeschool Moms
Sign up for Resources! Included is your entrance into my talk with Q&A titled, “Does My Homeschool Child Qualify for Speech Therapy?” I talk plainly about qualification and answer your questions.  Bundle Quick Link: https://www.maliaphelpswaller.com/bye-to-burnout-bundle

Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!  

2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿
✔ Meaningful conversations, ✔ Nature-based experiences, ✔ Build courage + confidence, ✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)  Learn more:  https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat

Use checkout code for your savings (Valid thru Feb 28, 2026)
PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket

PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four
Listen to 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!

IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, HERE ARE OTHER AUTHOR YOU WILL ENJOY:

226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings

214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience

218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words

243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection

252 Rella B: You Get the Work Done, They Think It’s Play - Turning Chores Into Connection

YOUR NEXT STEPS:  

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

“Play is…” downloadable:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662

Newsletter Sign up:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup

For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]

 

Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play

Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

Hey Friends~ 

This week is Children’s Authors and Illustrators Week! And on TLOP,  we’re celebrating an imaginative storyteller who helps kids grow brave, curious, and confident. So it felt like the perfect time to discuss: what shapes an author who writes stories that help children feel brave and confident?

In this episode, I talk with children’s author Rella B. about imagination, courage, and the heart behind stories that invite kids to embrace who they are. It’s a conversation about wonder, creativity, and why storytelling matters at every age.

Always cheering you on! 

Dinalynn

CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected]

COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play

ABOUT THE GUEST:  Rella B's transformation from a career-focused adult to a passionate advocate for the magic of childhood has resonated with countless families worldwide. Her belief that work and play should be inseparable companions has shaped her mission to provide young readers with captivating tales that not only entertain but also instill valuable life lessons. In the spirit of curiosity and courage, Rella B's journey reminds us all that there's no age limit on dreaming, exploring, and discovering the joy in everyday moments.

CONTACT THE GUEST:   [email protected]

https://rellabbooks.com/

YouTube.com/@Rellabbooks

All Socials are @Rellabbooks

 

February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors for a month!  

Constance Lewis: Emotions   Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/

Jason Heffler: Children's speech disorders   Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler

Terry Lilga:  Rhyming   Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/

Claire Miller: Storytelling with kids   Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk  

 

Highlighted Authors This Month:

226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings

214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience

218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words

243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection

MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE: 
Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!  

2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿
✔ Meaningful conversations
✔ Nature-based experiences
✔ Build courage + confidence
✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)

Learn more:
https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat

Use checkout code for your savings investment:
PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket

PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four
  Valid thru Feb 28, 2026
Listen to: 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!

YOUR NEXT STEPS:

5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91

“Play is…” https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662

Sign up for the Newsletter:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin

21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup

To discuss working together:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session

For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session

** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]

 

TO REVIEW, FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE, DONATE, SPONSOR: 

Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play

Follow & subscribe in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play

To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play

To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session