The SLP Mom Podcast

Does your toddler seem to understand everything you say… but still isn’t talking much yet? Maybe they follow directions, point to things you name, and clearly understand what’s going on around them — but when it comes to using words themselves, it feels like not much is happening. If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you. In today’s episode, we’re talking about: why understanding language...

Does your toddler whine, grunt, point, or scream instead of using words? You’re not alone and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , we’re talking about one of the most common (and frustrating) stages of early communication: when kids want to communicate but don’t yet have the words to say it. You’ll learn: Why whining, grunting, and pointing are actually positiv...

If you’ve ever found yourself counting your toddler’s words and wondering if they’re on track, this episode is for you. In today’s episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , I’m answering one of the most common questions parents ask: “How many words should my 18-month-old be saying?” We’ll talk about the real numbers you need to know — including the difference between averages and milestones — and why that...

If you’re trying to support your child’s speech this year and wondering what you should actually be doing at home , this episode is for you. In last week’s episode, we talked about the most important first step in language development: knowing where your child is at . Because once parents understand that, the next question is always the same… “Okay… now what?” In today’s episode of The SLP Mom Pod...

If you’re worried about your child’s speech and wondering where to even start , this episode is for you. Before we talk about strategies, toys, or activities, the most important first step in helping your child communicate is understanding where they are right now in their language development. In this episode, I walk you through how to figure out whether your child is with their language and walk...

As we head into a fresh new year, this episode is all about helping you feel confident—not overwhelmed—when it comes to supporting your toddler’s speech at home. In today’s episode, I’m breaking down the most common mistakes parents make when trying to help their child talk…and why none of them make you a “bad” parent. They’re simply habits no one teaches you to avoid. You’ll learn: ✔️ Why asking...

Is extra screen time during the holidays going to cause a speech delay? Parents ask this every year, and we get into it here. In this episode, pediatric speech-language pathologist and mom of four, Erin Larsen, explains why holiday screen time isn’t something to stress about and what actually supports your child’s communication skills during busy seasons. You’ll learn what really causes speech del...

Many parents worry when their toddler talks up a storm at home but goes completely quiet at family gatherings. Does it mean something is wrong? Is it a speech delay? Does it mean they aren’t making progress? In this episode, pediatric speech-language pathologist and mom of four Erin Larsen explains why it is totally normal for young children to talk less—or not at all—in busy, overwhelming, or unf...

Wondering how to support your toddler’s speech during the busy holiday season (without adding more to your plate)? In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast, a pediatric speech-language pathologist shares one simple, low-pressure strategy to grow your child’s vocabulary through everyday holiday experiences. Learn why modeling seasonal words naturally during movies, books, and outings can make a power...

Have you ever stood in the toy aisle feeling totally overwhelmed—wondering which toys will actually help your child learn and which are just loud, flashy, and labeled “educational” for marketing? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to choose toys that truly support your child’s speech and language development —without needing batteries, screens, or expensive “learning”...

Babbling is one of the most exciting early milestones—and one that often leaves parents with questions (and worries!). In today’s episode, we’re talking all things babbling: When should it start? What should it sound like? What if your baby isn’t doing it yet? And most importantly—how can YOU encourage it in everyday routines? I’ll walk you through the difference between canonical and variegated b...

Worried that using sign language with your baby or toddler might delay their speech? You’re so not alone—but the truth might surprise you. In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , we’re busting one of the most common myths I hear from parents: that using signs like “more,” “milk,” or “help” will stop kids from talking. Spoiler alert: it’s actually the opposite . 💬✨ We’ll chat about: What the res...

Ever wondered if screen time is the reason your child isn’t talking yet? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not a bad parent for asking. In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , we’re breaking down the research, the real-life impact of screen time on speech and language development, and how to handle screens without the guilt. 👩‍👧 I’m sharing my own stories as a mom of four, what the science...

You’ve probably heard it before—“Oh, he’s a boy… boys just talk later!” But is that actually true? In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , Erin breaks down the facts behind this common belief. We’ll talk about what the research says, what typical development looks like for boys and girls, and whether being a boy is ever a reason to “wait and see” when it comes to a speech delay. Plus, Erin shares...

In this episode of The SLP Mom Show , we're diving into a question almost every parent has asked at some point: "Why does my child mispronounce words?" Whether it’s “wabbit” instead of “rabbit” or “goggie” instead of “doggie,” mispronunciations are a totally normal part of language development—but how do you know what’s typical and what might need support? I’ll walk you through: Wha...

📢 Is My 1-Year-Old Talking Enough? Understanding Average vs. Milestone Vocabulary 🗣️ Ever found yourself Googling “How many words should my 1-year-old say?” 🤔 You’re not alone! In this episode, I’m breaking down the difference between average vocabulary and milestone vocabulary —and why it matters for your child’s speech development. 💡 What You’ll Learn: ✔️ How many words a 1-year-old typically...

Doctor visits can be stressful—long waits, cranky kids, and lots of distractions. But what if you could turn that time into a valuable language-learning opportunity? In this episode, I’m sharing simple, engaging activities you can do with your little one in the waiting room (without relying on screens). You'll learn: ✅ The #1 game to boost your child's vocabulary effortlessly ✅ What to...

Is your child having frequent meltdowns or tantrums? It could be due to a gap between what they want and their ability to communicate it. In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , we dive into the connection between frustration and language development, offering practical strategies to help reduce those tough moments. Discover how tailoring your questions, using yes/no options, and providing visual...

Is your child getting ready to say their first word? In this episode of The SLP Mom Podcast , we explore everything you need to know about first words! Learn the foundational skills your child needs to develop before saying their first word and discover the surprising variety of vocalizations, gestures, and sounds that count as "words." From animal noises to word approximations like &quo...

☀️🎙️ The Speech and Language On the Go Podcast 🎙️☀️ In this episode, we’re diving into my top tip for encouraging your toddler to say new words! As parents, it’s second nature to anticipate our children’s needs—but did you know this could slow down their speech development? Today, I’ll share a simple, effective strategy called creating language opportunities to help your child practice and learn n...

In this episode of the Speech and Language On the Go podcast, we take a deep dive into a topic that’s often overlooked when it comes to speech and language development—behavior. Host (and speech-language pathologist), Erin Larsen, explains how behavior is actually a form of communication and why certain behaviors, particularly around the holidays, might be more pronounced in neurodivergent childre...

In this episode of the Speech and Language On the Go Podcast , we dive into creative ways to encourage language development during the holiday season. Host and speech-language pathologist, Erin Larsen, shares simple and fun ideas for incorporating language learning into holiday activities, from looking at Christmas lights to visiting your local library for holiday-themed storytimes. Whether you&ap...

Looking for advice on choosing a toy to buy that encourages development? Not just speech and language development, but all child development skills? Look no further! I've got the answers for you in this episode! I'll chat three things I look for in toys before deciding to buy. And don't forget to download the FREE gift guide below that I mentioned in the episode.  Connect with Erin,...

In today's episode, we're diving into ear infections. They're no fun, right? But the big question is...what is their impact on speech and language development. Listen as we dive into some of the anatomy, what could be going on, and the possible implications. Connect with Erin, The SLP Mom! IG: @the.slp.mom FB: The SLP Mom Youtube: The SLP Mom Email: theslpmom@erinlarsen.com FREEBIES...

This is a BIG question parents often have- my child's pediatrician says wait and see. Should I? This episodes gives the perspective of a pediatric speech-language pathologist on the important factors to look at when making this decision for your child and your family.  Connect with Erin, The SLP Mom! IG: @the.slp.mom FB: The SLP Mom Youtube: The SLP Mom Email: theslpmom@erinlarsen.com FREEBIE...