Founded by two women from different minority and racial backgrounds, Sunny Spot Speech & Language Therapy Inc. strongly considers the unique cultural and linguistic needs of the diverse communities and families that it serves throughout San Fernando Valley and Greater Los Angeles. Cultural competence is crucial to delivering effective speech therapy services and we pride ourselves for offering in home bilingual speech therapy in Los Angeles, with services available in both English and Spanish languages.
Here are some common myths we hear and frequently asked questions we receive from our multilingual clients:
Can my child with a disability learn more than one language?
YES – research shows that individuals with severe disabilities can learn more than one language. Instruction in an individual’s first language can also help build a strong base for further language instruction (Kay Raining-Bird, Lamond, & Holden, 2012; Kay Raining-Bird, Cleave, Trudeau, Thordardottr Sutton, & Thorpe, 2005).
Should our family speak in just one language if our infant/toddler has a language delay?
Research has proven that bilingualism does NOT cause language delays. It is important that to continue to speak to your child in your family’s primary/native language so that they can communicate with you and your family members and be exposed to the best language models (whatever language you speak best) at home.
If my child has a language disorder, will speaking two languages confuse them?
Research shows that children with a wide range of communication disorders and disabilities are capable of being bilingual. In fact, eliminating your home language (the language you speak best) can result in poor language models at home which can actually hinder your child’s language development.
Will speaking to my child in English-only help them succeed at school?
No! Research shows that bilingual children actually have many academic and cognitive advantages compared to their monolingual peers. Multilingual children are often better at learning new words and languages, putting words into categories, problem solving and multi-tasking, and understanding others’ perspectives. It’s recommended to communicate with your child in the language(s) that you are most comfortable using. Children will learn languages best by having good language models.
Parents of bilingual/multilingual children: Want more info.?
Here's a list of some helpful resources for families who want to help their child become multilingual or learn more about the advantages of living in a multilingual household:
Get to know our Sunny Spot Speech founders:
Claudia Silva Rodriguez is a first-generation Mexican-American, born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, and the eldest of four siblings. Growing up in a Spanish-speaking home, she has always maintained a close connection to her cultural roots.
Lauren Friedrich is also a Los Angeles valley native and is the second eldest of four siblings. As a middle child, Lauren has consistently thrived in group settings, where she has effectively showcased her leadership abilities and her ability to compromise.
Our Los Angeles based private speech therapy practice welcomes families of all cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds. We provide private speech therapy for kids in home, online, at your child's preschool, daycare, private school, or at another community location throughout Los Angeles' San Fernando Valley. Locations include: Northridge, Calabasas, Granada Hills, Encino, Tarzana, Woodland Hills, Topanga, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Universal City, San Fernando, Valley Village, Burbank, Glendale.
We approach each client with empathy and a deep understanding of the cultural contexts that may influence their communication and behaviors. By incorporating culturally relevant materials and bilingual support, we can enhance the efficacy of our therapy services - especially for our Spanish-speaking children and their families.
Do you have concerns regarding your child's speech and language skills? Contact us - we are accepting new pediatric clients throughout Los Angeles: Phone: 818-350-3107 Email: info@sunnyspotspeech.com.
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