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Boost Speech & Communication at Home with Pretend Play
As speech therapists, one of our favorite tools for language development in children is pretend play. Not only does it spark creativity and fun, but it also helps kids practice communication skills, build vocabulary, and develop social interaction abilities. Here are five easy and effective strategies you can use at home to enhance your child’s…
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Why Therapists Love Peanut Balls—and How You Can Use Them at Home!
If you’ve heard your child’s therapist mention a “peanut ball” and pictured a bouncy snack—don’t worry, you’re not the only one! While the name is funny, this peanut-shaped therapy tool is anything but a joke. It’s designed to support movement, coordination, and strength in ways that are both effective and fun for kids of all…
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From Student to Pediatric SLP: Kendall’s CTD Story
We were excited when Kendall began her fieldwork at our Eugene clinic in the winter of 2025. At the time, Kendall was a student at the University of Oregon, completing her speech-language pathology training and getting hands-on experience in pediatric therapy. Little did we know that what started as a student placement would become the…
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Madi’s CTD Story: From Fieldwork to Finding Her Place as a Pediatric OT
My journey to Connect the Dots started as an OT graduate student looking for a place to learn and grow my skills related to pediatric OT that was close to where I grew up in Oregon. I believe my fieldwork coordinator at Eastern Washington University helped me make the initial connection. However, after meeting with…
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Celebrating AAC Awareness Month: Facts, Myths & Frequently Asked Questions
October is AAC Awareness Month, and we think it deserves a little spotlight. At Connect the Dots, our speech-language therapists…
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5 Fun Fall Activities to Support Your Child’s Speech and Language Skills
Looking for fall speech therapy activities to practice your child’s speech and language goals at home? Fall is full of…
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Michaela’s CTD Story: Growing a Career in Pediatric Physical Therapy
Almost 8 Years Later: Michaela Wright’s CTD Story Almost 8 years ago, Michaela Wright took a chance on a job…
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5 Things Parents Love About Telehealth Speech Therapy
For many families, getting to speech therapy is only one piece of the puzzle. There’s the drive, the schedule juggling,…
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Back-to-School Routines: How Practicing Before September Can Help Kids Feel More Confident
If you’re already feeling a little panicked thinking about getting one (or multiple!) kids out the door for school each…
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Celebrating 13 Years of Connect the Dots Pediatric Therapy!
Thirteen years ago, Connect the Dots opened its doors with a mission to help children reach their highest potential. What…
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More Than a Job: How Maddie Found Her Place as a Pediatric OT at Connect the Dots
Three years ago, a simple Handshake message started a conversation that changed everything. I reached out to Maddie Kurt, a…
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Introducing CTD Take-Home Sensory Bins: OT-Created Play for Home
At Connect the Dots, we believe some of the best learning happens through play. That’s why we’re excited to introduce…
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Why Regulation Comes Before Learning: Helping Kids Focus Starts with the Nervous System
Many parents notice their child struggling to focus, stay on task, or follow instructions at school. Teachers often say things…
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