The Abilities in Me: Speech Delay
#10 of 21 in The Ability Series
What’s inside...
The book 'The Abilities in Me: Speech Delay' by Gemma Keir is a touching story that highlights the journey of children with speech delays. It delves into their challenges and victories while providing support and promoting understanding. With captivating illustrations, it encourages discussions among children and parents about patience, acceptance, and the various ways people communicate. It emphasizes empathy and resilience in children’s developmental journey. Aimed at children aged 3-8, the story follows a young girl with speech delay, exploring her day through vibrant illustrations and narrative, teaching about the condition and how to be supportive and kind.
Discussion points
How do you think the child in the book felt when they had trouble speaking?
What are some ways we can help someone who finds it hard to talk?
Can you think of a time when it was hard for you to express something? What helped you?
Why do you think understanding and patience are important when someone has a speech delay?
How can we show support to our friends who might feel different from us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, whether through words, drawings, or gestures.
Active listening is key. Show your child that their voice is important by giving them your full attention.
Use examples from the book to highlight moments of empathy and understanding, reinforcing these values in real-life situations.
After reading, engage in activities that promote speech and language development, such as storytelling or singing together.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and empathy
Explanation: The book portrays the journey of a child with speech delay, emphasizing the challenges they face in communication.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be patient and supportive when interacting with peers who may have difficulties in expressing themselves.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The story highlights the child's efforts to overcome their speech delay through various therapies and practices.
Real-World Application: Kids are encouraged to persistently work towards their goals, no matter the obstacles they encounter.
Example Lesson: Importance of inclusive communication
Explanation: The narrative teaches about alternative communication methods used by those with speech delays, such as sign language or communication boards.
Real-World Application: This lesson prepares children to be adaptable in their communication and to use or understand different methods when communicating with others who have speech delays.
Example Lesson: Celebrating individuality
Explanation: The book showcases the unique talents and skills of the child, apart from their speech delay.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to recognize and appreciate the diverse strengths and qualities in themselves and others, promoting self-esteem and peer appreciation.