260 Melissa Schulz: Have A Strong-Willed, Highly Sensitive, or Neurodiverse Child?

Hey Friends~  When the body works harder, communication often does too. In this episode, we’re talking about communication challenges related to low muscle tone, cerebral palsy, and AAC which  stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication  We’ll look at how effort, fatigue, and positioning impact speech and more importantly, you will hear 3 stories how AAC supported  functional communication for kids that did not  have spoken communication.  Then come back next week so you can hear from a Mom along with her daughter who uses AAC.  Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] WEBSITE:  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play PLEASE VOTE!!  We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!!   This is a VOTER’S CHOICE AWARD. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY : LIFESTYLE  PODCASTS https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards     IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 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 3 257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5   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 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~  We are in the middle of the series “When Communication is hard” to discuss a topic that is just as important and impacts our kids.  That is—the strength of the parent relationship itself. Today’s conversation with Jan shifts the focus to how, when parents grow in connection and calm, it creates a foundation that helps even the most challenging behaviors begin to settle. What if the key to calmer kids isn’t another parenting technique, but strengthening your relationship as a couple? Jan and I explore how to choose what’s both nice and necessary in stressful moments so connection isn’t lost when tension rises, and why putting the parent relationship first actually helps children feel more secure. You’ll hear simple ways to walk yourself through overwhelming moments so your calm and logic can “hold” your emotions, allowing you to respond with clarity instead of frustration. And throughout it all, we come back to gratitude, growth, and celebration—because when you begin to shift, even in small ways, your child often follows. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] Website:  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play PLEASE VOTE!!  We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!!   This is a VOTER’S CHOICE AWARD. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY : LIFESTYLE  PODCASTS https://www.womenpodcasters.com/awards   ABOUT THE GUEST:   Married with kids can be a marriage wrecker. Jan knows it doesn’t have to be that way. Using her marriage and family knowledge and skills, she developed the pathway for new parents to stay together while parenting their kiddos and keeping their marriage relationship strong. She practiced this (with Chip) within their own marriage and family of 4 kids. The D of divorce was squashed. Their marriage and family turned into one filled with the A’s of appreciation and adoration. Being connected, communicating well and resolving confusion and conflicts is doable and even enjoyable while moving from Family Crazy to Family Calm with the DNA Way to Communicate. CONTACT THE GUEST:   [email protected] www.UsAndKids.com https://instagram.com/Usandkids https://www.facebook.com/usandkidspodcast https://www.linkedin.com/in/jantalen Bonus link will come in an email   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5 260 Melissa Schulz: Have A Strong-Willed, Highly Sensitive, or Neurodiverse Child?   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   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~  In the last episode, part 5, we talked about ADHD, ASD and processing difficulties. In this episode we support that learning as we listen to a mom and coach talk about parenting some of these kids who are strong-willed, highly sensitive, and neurodiverse. Our conversation is full of examples of turning daily struggles into calmer, more connected moments.   So if you have a child that pushes your buttons or can be difficult, you will feel empowered after listening to this episode.   NEWS!!  We are nominated for Women Podcasters Awards!!  This is a listener-vote award. PLEASE VOTE for THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY in the CATEGORY of LIFESTYLE  https://www.womenpodcasters.com/language-of-play   Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] CHECKOUT THE WEBSITE!  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play   ABOUT THE GUEST:   Melissa Schulz, MS, BCBA, is a parenting coach and behavior analyst who helps parents of strong-willed, highly sensitive, and neurodiverse kids turn daily struggles into calmer, more connected moments using her proven processes. Melissa has been recognized as the "Best Parenting Coach in the United States for 2025" by Evergreen Awards. CONTACT THE GUEST:    www.melissaschulz.com www.facebook.com/confidentlymommin www.instagram.com/confidentlymommin Free e-guide "How to Get Kids to Listen" : https://www.melissaschulz.com/free-guide     IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 53 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 3 257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4 259 When Communication Is Hard: Autism, ADHD, and Language Processing Differences, part 5   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   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 communication with your child feels confusing, exhausting, or like you’re missing something important, this episode is for you. Today we’re talking about language  processing differences in  ASD  (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Disorder)  along with processing differences associated with Auditory processing, Language processing, and Sensory processing.  If listening feels hard, behavior gets in the way, or conversations fall apart quickly, this episode will help you see communication through a new lens.  We’ll connect regulation, attention, and language, and talk about how lowering pressure often opens the door to better communication. This is about helping you see what’s really going on… so you can respond in ways that truly help your child. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] VISIT MY WEBSITE!  https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Have a question or comment? Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES: 189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills 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 3 257 When Kids Know More Than They Can Say: Expressive & Receptive Language Delays and DLD, part 4   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   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~ *SPECIAL EPISODE* Podcasthon Highlighted Charity:  Small Steps in Speech with Amanda Charney-Berardi. If you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional who’s ever worried about a child being misunderstood… if you’ve wondered whether listening, play, and connection really matter as much as we say they do… or if you believe that every child deserves support—not just the lucky ones—then this episode is for you. Today’s conversation is part of Podcasthon, a worldwide charity event where thousands of podcasts come together during one week to release special episodes in support of causes that matter deeply to them. I chose to highlight Small Steps in Speech, a nonprofit that helps fund speech and language services for children—because helping kids find their voice is at the very heart of what I believe, and how I believe change actually happens. Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] Comment? Question?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play Work with Dinalynn.  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session ABOUT THE GUEST:   Amanda Charney-Berardi is the founder of the nonprofit organization Small Steps in Speech, which she established in 2009 after the tragic loss of her fiancé, SSG Marc Small, a United States Army Special Forces soldier. Marc believed deeply in her career as a Speech-Language Pathologist and often served as her “guinea pig” for lessons and practice evaluations. After receiving the heartbreaking news of Marc’s passing, Amanda founded the organization in his honor.   ABOUT THE NON-PROFIT:  Small Steps in Speech has granted more than $2 million to children across all 50 states, continuing Marc’s legacy. The organization provides children and their families the gift of improved communication through support such as speech therapy, AAC devices, parent–child PROMPT and apraxia therapy, hippotherapy, and other services that help children develop their voices.   CONTACT THE GUEST/NON-PROFIT:  https://www.smallstepsinspeech.org/ Free Speech Therapy:  [email protected] To donate:  https://www.smallstepsinspeech.org/donate social media page: https://www.facebook.com/smallstepsinspeech/ Instagram: Venmo for Donations:   ABOUT THE GLOBAL INITIATIVE: PODCASTHON is a global nonprofit initiative where  podcasters unite for a coordinated charity campaign each year. During a designated week, thousands of podcasts release a special episode highlighting a nonprofit or cause they care about, using the power of podcasting to raise awareness and inspire support worldwide.  https://podcasthon.org/   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL WANT TO LISTEN TO LAST YEAR’S NON-PROFIT!  206 Jeremiah Program: Disrupting Poverty Two Generations At A Time A PODCASTHON SPECIAL   FAMILY RESOURCE:  Financial Freedom 101:  with Penelope Jane Smith Build simple, family-friendly money systems at the Financial Freedom 101 Virtual Event.  To learn more or reserve a spot, you can find the details here: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/scholarship/dinalynn   YOUR NEXT STEPS with The Language Of Play   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~  “My child understands everything but doesn’t talk much.”  “My child talks, but I can’t always tell what they mean.” If those worries sound familiar, this episode is for you!  This is Episode 4 in the series When Communication Is Hard, and today we’re exploring expressive and receptive language delays. We’ll untangle what these differences look like so you can better understand what’s happening in your child’s communication, and how everyday moments can become powerful opportunities for language growth.  And of course, you’ll walk away with strategies you can start using today - so grab your pen and paper… and let’s get started! Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play WORK WITH Dinalynn:  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session   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   OTHER EPISODES IN THIS SERIES:   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 3 189 Your Child Is A Gestalt Language Learner? Uses Echolalia? 4 Tips To Help Expand Interactive Skills   Other Resources:  Free this week: the Lucky Find Bundle through March 17.  https://bit.ly/luckyfindbundle “When Behavior Is Communication: 21 Days to Feel More Steady” — my reflection journal for parents who want to move from pressure and self-doubt toward curiosity, confidence, and calm - is available inside the bundle.  Financial Freedom 101:  with Penelope Jane Smith Build simple, family-friendly money systems at the Financial Freedom 101 Virtual Event. To learn more or reserve a spot, you can find the details here: https://realprosperity.isrefer.com/go/scholarship/dinalynn Podapalooza:  https://dinalynn--checkingout.thrivecart.com/podapalooza/  Have you ever wanted to learn about podcasting?  Attend a podcasting event?  Be interviewed on a podcast?  This event is for you!  

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