Motivating the Unmotivated: Tips for Engaging Reluctant Teens

Hallie chats with Jennifer Tillock about speech therapy with older students in teletherapy and in-person settingsReady to kickstart your school year with enthusiasm and insight? Join Hallie Sherman on this episode of SLP Coffee Talk as she sits down with Jennifer Tillock, a dedicated teletherapist with a wealth of experience working with older students. In this conversation, Jennifer shares her journey from traditional therapy to teletherapy, offering valuable insights on how to keep literacy-based learning exciting and engaging. Packed with practical tips and inspiring stories, this episode is perfect for teletherapists, SLPs, and anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in speech therapy. Tune in for fresh ideas and a dose of enthusiasm to kickstart your school year!Bullet Points to Discuss:Why my interventions are primarily literacy-basedMy new take on vocabulary interventionThe importance of student inputHere’s what we learned:Why literacy activities are game-changers for older students.- Using digital tools like YouTube Read Aloud and audiobooks to simplify teletherapy sessions.Strategies to help students understand why they’re in speech.Tips for showing grace to yourself and students while maintaining engaging, productive sessions.Differentiating speech therapy from reading instruction and collaborating with literacy teachers.Learn more about  Jennifer Tillock:https://mrsspeechonline.blogspot.com/https://linktr.ee/mrs.speechhttps://www.instagram.com/mrs.speechonlinehttps://www.youtube.com/@Mrs.Speech-wk4mrhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556892726241https://www.pinterest.com/christinetellach/https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/49549289.Jennifer_Tillockhttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/store/mrs-speechwww.amazon.com/author/tillock-mrs.speechwww.amazon.com/author/jennifertillockFreebie Linkshttps://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Speech-Therapy-Spark-Engaging-Middle-School-Short-Stories-Categorized-by-Genre-11644006Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie chats about motivating the unmotivated student. She shares tips for engaging reluctant teens.This week on SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie tackles a common challenge for SLPs working with older students—engaging reluctant teens in speech therapy. Drawing from her experience, she breaks down practical, compassionate strategies to turn crossed arms and silence into connection and growth. From building rapport and respecting boundaries to incorporating students’ interests and empowering them with choice, Hallie shares creative, low-prep ideas that make therapy fun and relevant. Tune in for tips that will transform resistance into enthusiasm, helping students stay motivated and making your sessions more rewarding and stress-free.Bullet Points to Discuss:The reason behind the reluctance of older students.Strategies for building trust and rapport.Simple, creative therapy techniques that require minimal prep.Student-led goal setting and decision-making.Here’s what we learned:Compassion and empathy helps foster better student engagement.Building rapport is a continuous process, going beyond the initial days.Relating speech therapy to students’ personal experiences and aspirations increases active involvement.Creative, relevant activities keep sessions engaging and dynamic.Allowing students to choose goals and activities increases participation.Highlighting strengths boosts confidence and reduces resistance.Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signup Subscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie chats with guest Britney Morrish about the intersection of DLD and Dyslexia, and the Quadrant Model for differential diagnosis.In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with Britney Morrish, a dedicated speech-language pathologist and founder of the Language and Literacy Clinic of Manitoba. Britney is passionate about using evidence-based practices to promote effective communication and literacy skills while advocating for equitable educational practices. Together, they explore literacy-based therapy for students with developmental language disorders (DLD) and dyslexia. Packed with actionable tips, this episode covers connecting therapy goals to the curriculum, understanding the overlap between DLD and dyslexia, and practical strategies for advocating for these students.Bullet Points to Discuss:-What is DLD?       -How prevalent is it?-What is Dyslexia?-The Quadrant model for differential diagnosis.       -How does it help us clarify overlapping diagnoses?-Why SLPs are central to diagnosing and treating literacy-based disorders.-Closing the DLD awareness gap - in professionals and the public.Here’s what we learned:Why SLPs are uniquely positioned to address literacy challenges.Defining DLD and its impact on language comprehension and expression.Key differences and co-occurrences of DLD and dyslexia explained using the quadrant model.Challenges with current screening methods and potential improvements.The importance of vocabulary and syntax in therapy for older students.Strategies to raise awareness about DLD among educators and parents.Managing therapy for older students with multiple challenges.Utilizing high-interest materials to increase student engagement.Learn more about Britney Morrish:www.languageliteracyclinicmb.cahttps://www.instagram.com/languageliteracyclinicmb/https://www.languageliteracyclinicmb.ca/masterclasseshttps://www.languageliteracyclinicmb.ca/productsFreebies/Offers:https://www.languageliteracyclinicmb.ca/productsLearn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupResources Mentioned:On the “Specifics” of Specific Reading Disability and Specific Language Impairment by G. M. McArthur, J. H. Hogben, V. T. Edwards, S. M. Heath, E. D. MenglerSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie talks with SLP Elevate member Bridget Karp about empowering middle school students and using SLP Elevate resources.This week on SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with Bridget Karp, a passionate and experienced speech-language pathologist specializing in middle school therapy. Bridget has six years of expertise across various settings, including public and private schools and early intervention. She combines her knowledge with dedication in helping her students develop confidence and autonomy. Bridget talks about how tools like SLP Elevate have streamlined her planning process, making sessions both fun and effective. She shares tips in keeping therapy engaging such as tailoring activities to students' interests, promoting self-advocacy, and incorporating playful methods. See how small choices and thoughtful planning can make a big difference for middle schoolers, making your sessions more impactful and stress-free!Bullet Points to Discuss:Transitioning from elementary to middle school therapy.Building autonomy and confidence in older students.Balancing structured therapy with engaging, student-led activities.Time-saving planning techniques with SLP Elevate and similar tools.Overcoming challenges and fostering self-advocacy.Here’s what we learned:Middle school students thrive when given autonomy and ownership in sessions.Simple, student-led activities like games can make therapy more effective.Tailoring content to student interests boosts engagement and progress.Tools like SLP Elevate save time and offer flexible, age-appropriate materials.Empowering students to advocate for themselves is critical at the middle school stage.Learn more about Bridget Karp: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bktheslp/ Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie discusses New Year's themed activities for therapy.Happy New Year, SLPs! 🥳 It's time to shake off the holiday haze and dive into a brand-new year with fresh ideas and big dreams for your therapy sessions. In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie brings the ultimate guide to planning engaging, New Year's-themed activities that will have your students saying, "This is why I come to speech!"Discover quick, no-prep exercises, free resources like a fun YouTube video (hint: think New Year’s Eve tradition!), a summarizing card game, and a versatile digital comprehension activity for in-person or virtual sessions. Hallie also shares tips for using New Year’s resolutions to create personalized, motivating therapy plans.Bullet Points to Discuss:The Power of New Year's ActivitiesGoal Setting for SuccessBuilding MotivationMaking Progress EffortlessHere’s what we learned:Fun, thematic ideas to re-engage your students after the break.How to align personal goals with therapy objectives.Hallie’s go-to tools for quick, low-prep sessions (find links in the show notes!).Tips to connect therapy skills to your students' real-world aspirations.A sneak peek into how SLP Elevate can transform your planning and outcomes.Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupResources Mentioned:Colossal QuestionsWonderpolisSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie reflects on 2024.SLPs, can you believe it? 2024 is in the rearview, and Hallie is kicking off the new year with an episode full of reflection, celebration, and a glimpse into what’s next for Speech Time Fun!She highlights the triumphs of 2024, shares favorite moments, and showcases how her resources continue to inspire creativity in therapy. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming in 2025—new resources, fresh therapy ideas, and more ways to save time while delivering impactful sessions.Tune in to celebrate the past and embrace the possibilities ahead with Speech Time Fun! 🎉✨Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

 After Speech Retreat, Hallie chats with SLP Elevate member and Speech Retreat attendee Elsha Young about reigniting the spark as an SLP.In this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie sits down with Elsha Young, a Speech-Language Pathologist SLP Elevate member and Speech Retreat attendee to chat about reigniting that spark as an SLP. With 25 years of experience supporting communication across all stages of life, Elsha specializes in language, literacy, and assisting individuals with complex neuro-related communication challenges. From early intervention to private practice, schools, and hospitals, she’s now providing hybrid therapy services in Alaska, enjoying the opportunity to work with a diverse group of middle and high school students from various cultural, linguistic, neurological, and geographical backgrounds.Bullet Points to Discuss:Challenges of a Large CaseloadFinding Joy in the WorkInnovative Therapy ApproachesAdapting to Student NeedsBalancing Structure and FlexibilityImpact Beyond Traditional MetricsHere’s what we learned:Challenges faced by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) working with older students.The impact of social media on professional expectations and self-perception.Career transitions and adapting to new roles in therapy services.Finding joy and passion in therapy despite challenges.Building rapport and meaningful relationships with students.Utilizing evidence-based materials to enhance student engagement and progress.Overwhelming amount of information and resources in the SLP community.Learn more about Elsha Young: Email: [email protected] more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Bridging the Gap: How SLPs Can Empower Teachers to Support Students with Speech and Language NeedsIn this another energizing episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie dives into actionable strategies for collaborating with classroom teachers to better support your older speech students (grades 4–12). From recommending simple accommodations to fostering generalization of skills beyond the therapy room, this episode is your go-to guide for making classrooms more accessible and boosting student success. 💡 Ready to make an impact? Let’s do this, SLPs!Bullet Points to Discuss:-Why Accommodations Matter-Top Accommodation Tips for Teachers-How to Communicate with Teachers-Benefits of Classroom AccommodationsHere’s what we learned:Bridging the gap between speech therapy and the classroom.Advocating for students' needs and ensuring academic content accessibility.Extra processing time for students to absorb and respond.Using visual supports like graphic organizers (e.g., “Somebody Wanted But So Then” for summarizing).Allowing alternative ways to demonstrate knowledge (e.g., written reflections or recorded responses).Fostering independence by reducing future accommodation needs.Remember: You are not the customer. Your perspective differs from your students’.Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP Elevate:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupLooking to level up but don’t want the hassle? I’ve got you covered!💡 Here’s the deal:Just send me a DM on Instagram with the word "GUIDE" and BOOM 💥—you’ll instantly get the link to my exclusive guide, completely FREE!Subscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Hallie and Brittney Adler discuss creating language goals for following directions.Grab your coffee and get cozy for an exciting episode of SLP Coffee Talk! This week, Hallie chats with the amazing Brittney Adler—a neurodiversity-affirming SLP who’s all about celebrating the unique ways neurodivergent kids communicate. Brittney works her magic with AAC, gestalt language processing, and sensory-based strategies to help kids with high support needs shine.Together, Hallie and Brittney unpack the age-old “following directions” goals, shake up compliance-based practices, and share fun, practical ways to teach self-advocacy and independence. It’s an episode full of laughs, aha moments, and fresh takes to inspire your therapy sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned SLP or new to the field, this one’s for you!Bullet Points to Discuss:Compliance vs. comprehension in therapyThe power of child-led therapySelf-advocacy and independenceMoving beyond traditional "following directions"Here’s what we learned:Breaking down the nuances of following directions: compliance vs. comprehension.The shift from compliance to teaching self-advocacy and independence.Why child-led therapy isn’t just effective—it’s a game changer for planning.Practical, everyday strategies to make speech goals relevant and functional.A fresh perspective on receptive language goals in school settings.Encouragement to follow your instincts and embrace neuroaffirming approaches.Learn more about Brittney Adler: Instagram: www.instagram.com/nycslpb TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nycslpb?_t=8r63oMxc3gc&_r=1 Learn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets

Building relationships, human-centered approach to teaching, unorthodox teaching methods, unapologetic authenticity, having fun and experiencing joy as an educatorOn this episode of SLP Coffee Talk, Hallie welcomes educator and author Dwayne Reed to discuss the importance of building meaningful connections with students. Dwayne shares his unique journey into education, starting with his viral music video, Welcome to the 4th Grade, and highlights the transformative impact of being authentic in the classroom. He offers practical strategies for relationship-building, emphasizing the importance of meeting students where they are and treating them as individuals. Discover how Dwayne’s philosophy, outlined in his book Be THAT Teacher: Rehumanizing Education with Unapologetic Authenticity, can inspire educators and speech-language pathologists alike to foster trust, growth and joy in their work.Bullet Points to Discuss:Why is authenticity so important in education?Everything good about life comes through humanity, not policy; how does this apply to education?What exactly does it mean to be THAT teacher and how can others do it?For those who say that, "Building relationships with students" is an empty platitude that administrators give their teachers, what's your response?What makes your book, Be THAT Teacher, special, noteworthy, or valuable to the every day teacher or administrator, and why should anyone purchase it?Here’s what we learned:Building trust with students starts with authenticity and connection. Treating students as individuals, not data points, fosters respect and engagement. Small gestures, like remembering details about a student, can have a big impact. Creating a supportive, human-centered classroom culture leads to long-term success. Encouraging students to embrace their uniqueness builds confidence and self-worth.Holding students accountable with grace and understanding strengthens relationships. Learn more about Dwayne Reed  Website: tmreed.comInstagram: @teachmrreed Book: Be That Teacher by Dwayne ReedLearn more about Hallie Sherman  and SLP:  📝 Website: https://speechtimefun.com/🎲✨ Check out the Secondary Secret Podcast here! https://www.speechtimefunpd.com/secret-podcast-signupSubscribe today and get access to my secret podcast filled with my juicy secrets for planning with ease for secondary speech students. 6 quick episodes that you can quickly listen to and feel refreshed and inspired! https://speechtimefun.com/secondarysecrets