More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child

The Reading and Language Learning Center
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More Than Words is for parents and people working with children who notice that their child is struggling to keep up with their peers, be it academically, socially, or emotionally. In each episode, we share resources, guidance, and a sense of assurance on the path to helping your child.

  1. 2D AGO

    How Yoga Can Help Speech with Jennifer Schmid

    What if supporting speech and language started with the body? In this episode, Tristen is joined by speech-language pathologist and yoga teacher Jennifer Schmid to explore how movement, breath, and regulation can directly support communication. Together, they unpack why a calm, organized body creates better conditions for speech and language learning, how yoga-informed strategies can fit naturally into speech therapy, and what parents can try at home. This conversation is practical, grounded, and accessible for families and clinicians who want to better support the whole child. What You’ll Learn Why regulation is foundational for speech and language development How movement and breath support attention, motor planning, and communication What “yoga-informed” really means in a speech therapy context How speech-language pathologists can integrate yoga-based strategies without losing focus on goals Examples of yoga-informed activities used during speech therapy sessions Simple breath and movement routines parents can use at home Why supporting the body can help words come more easily About Jennifer Schmid Jennifer Schmid is a speech-language pathologist and yoga instructor who specializes in integrating mind–body practices into speech and language therapy. She brings together evidence-based speech therapy with yoga-informed strategies to support regulation, communication, and learning in children. Jennifer is passionate about helping clinicians and families understand how the body and nervous system influence speech, language, and connection. Through her work, she supports a whole-child approach that is practical, accessible, and grounded in both clinical expertise and compassion. Learn more about Jennifer and her work at jenschmid.com. Links and Resources Jennifer Schmid: https://www.jenschmid.com RLLC’s Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com  Follow RLLC on social media for more learning-focused content: Instagram: @readingllcenter Facebook: @readingllcenter Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center  Subscribe, rate, and review More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child wherever you listen to podcasts.

    41 min

  2. FEB 4

    Why Kids Forget What They Just Heard: Executive Function and Memory

    Why does it feel like kids forget instructions the moment they hear them? In this episode of More Than Words, host Tristen is joined by licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Erika Madison to unpack how executive function plays a critical role in memory. Rather than being a true “memory problem,” many everyday struggles with forgetting directions, losing materials, or blanking on tests are rooted in how the brain organizes, holds, and retrieves information. Dr. Madison breaks down executive function in clear, relatable terms and explains how skills like attention, working memory, organization, and planning directly impact learning and recall. Together, they explore why memory demands increase as children get older and share practical, realistic strategies parents and educators can use to reduce memory load and better support kids at home and school. What You’ll Learn What executive function is and why it acts like the brain’s “CEO” How working memory supports learning and following directions in real time Why kids can seem to “know it yesterday” but forget it during tests How executive function challenges can look like memory problems Why memory demands increase as academic tasks become more complex How organization and planning affect memory retrieval Practical strategies to reduce memory load and support executive functioning About Dr. Erika Madison Dr. Erika Madison, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist at MindWell Psychology, where she specializes in comprehensive psychological and psychoeducational evaluations for children, adolescents, and adults. Her clinical focus includes executive functioning, attention, learning differences, ADHD, autism, and emotional regulation. Dr. Madison is known for helping families understand the “why” behind a child’s learning or behavioral challenges and translating assessment results into clear, actionable recommendations that support success at home and school. With a background that also includes forensic psychology, she brings a deep understanding of cognitive processes and behavior, along with a practical, compassionate approach to care. Links & Resources Learn more about Dr. Erika Madison and MindWell Psychology: https://mindwell.us/ Subscribe, Rate, and Review If this episode helped you see your child’s behavior in a new light, please subscribe, rate, and review More Than Words on your podcast platform. It helps other parents and teachers find tools that make daily life easier. Connect with RLLC Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com  Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center

    25 min

  3. JAN 21

    Designing AAC Supports With Students with Madison Brumbaugh

    Designing AAC Supports With Students In this episode of More Than Words, we sit down with Madison Brumbaugh, M.S., CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist and clinical assistant professor at The George Washington University whose work focuses on supporting individuals with complex communication needs. Madison has experience serving clients across the lifespan and working in public schools, private practice, and home health settings. She holds master’s degrees in Educational Research and Communication Sciences and Disorders from Georgia State University and is currently pursuing a PhD in Translational Health Sciences at GW. Madison is also active in professional leadership and advocacy, including roles with ASHA and state speech-language-hearing associations. Whether you are new to AAC or have some background, this conversation highlights a fresh and essential perspective: how we can design AAC supports with students, not for them. Madison breaks down what AAC actually is and what it looks like in real classrooms and therapy settings. From there, we explore how involving students in the design of AAC tools can increase engagement, support literacy, and help learners express themselves more meaningfully across environments. We also discuss both low-tech and high-tech AAC supports, including visual organizers and personalized digital tools, and how students can help shape these tools to better meet their communication and learning needs. Throughout the conversation, Madison shares practical examples and mindset shifts that educators, therapists, and families can apply right away. In this episode, you will learn: What AAC is and who it can support What it means to design AAC supports with students Why student involvement matters for meaningful communication How students can participate in designing both low-tech and high-tech AAC tools The connection between AAC, literacy, and classroom engagement Practical steps educators and families can take to center student voice This episode is ideal for educators, therapists, and caregivers who want to better understand AAC and create communication supports that truly reflect the students using them.   Links and Resources: Madison’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madison-b-b171a9155/  Madison’s information at George Washington University: Madison Brumbaugh  About Madison Brumbaugh | DC Speech & Literacy    Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode! Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com  Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center

    1h 3m

  4. 12/17/2025

    Beyond Brushing: How Oral Health Influences Speech, Feeding, and Learning with Dr. Sheyda Maghsoudi

    Oral health is about so much more than cavities. In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Dr. Sheyda Maghsoudi, board-certified pediatric dentist and founder of Lansdowne Pediatric Dentistry, to explore how oral structure, airway health, and daily habits influence speech, feeding, sleep, behavior, and learning. Dr. Maghsoudi explains how tongue position, jaw and palate development, and breathing patterns play a critical role in how children communicate and function at school. She also shares early warning signs families and therapists can watch for, why collaboration between dentists and other specialists, like speech language pathologists, matters, and how personalized, sensory-informed dental care can transform a child’s experience. This conversation is a powerful reminder that supporting the mouth and airway is a part of supporting the whole child. What You’ll Learn: How oral health connects to speech, feeding, and learning Why tongue posture and nasal breathing are critical for development Early signs of oral or airway issues, including mouth breathing and picky eating How tongue ties can impact function and why team-based care matters The importance of collaboration between dentists, SLPs, OTs, and other providers How dental care can be adapted for children with sensory sensitivities Everyday habits that support healthy jaw, facial, and airway development A real-life example of how improving breathing changed a child’s focus and behavior About Dr. Maghsoudi Dr. Sheyda Maghsoudi is a board-certified pediatric dentist and the founder of Lansdowne Pediatric Dentistry in Lansdowne, Virginia. She takes a whole-child approach to oral health, focusing on how dental development, airway health, and oral function influence speech, feeding, sleep, and learning. Dr. Maghsoudi is passionate about early intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration, working closely with speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other pediatric specialists to support children’s overall development. She is especially known for her compassionate, individualized care for children with sensory sensitivities and neurodiverse needs. Links & Resources Dr. Maghsoudi’s Practice: https://lansdownepediatricdentistry.com/ Lansdowne’s Phone number: 571-210-2771 Reading & Language Learning Center: Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center   Subscribe, rate, and review to help more families find the show.

    30 min

  5. 12/10/2025

    SLPs Talk Dyslexia: Myths, Gaps, and What They Wish They Learned

    Episode Summary In this powerful episode, we’re unpacking what Speech-Language Pathologists really know, and wish they knew, about dyslexia. After interviewing dozens of SLPs and graduate students at the 2024 ASHA Convention, we discovered clear themes: misinformation, missing training, personal stories of struggle and resilience, and a deep desire for better tools to support dyslexic learners. Joined by Susan (RLLC Owner) and Maggie (RLLC Therapist), host Tristen dives into what today’s SLPs are experiencing in the field: everything from misconceptions like “letters flipping” to the reality that most grad programs barely touch structured literacy or dyslexia at all. We explore what this means for families, how SLPs fit into the dyslexia landscape, and why specialized language-based literacy training is more important than ever. This episode is honest, validating, and packed with insight for parents, educators, and clinicians who want to understand dyslexia through a truly language-based lens. In This Episode, We Discuss: The top myths SLPs reported hearing about dyslexia Why dyslexia is not a visual issue, but a language-based learning difference The nationwide training gap in graduate programs Emotional stories from SLPs who personally have dyslexia System-level challenges around screening and assessment Why SLPs are the right professionals to support dyslexia — when properly trained Practical questions SLPs are asking: identification, intervention, evaluation, bilingual learners, and more How training, clarity, and a structured literacy framework can transform SLP confidence ✨ Professional Development for SLPs & Educators If this episode left you thinking, “I want to learn this, I just never got the training.” you’re not alone. And we can help. RLLC now offers several professional development courses, including: Orton–Gillingham Spelling Rules — practical and immediately applicable How to Test for Dyslexia — evaluation guidance for SLPs and educators And coming soon: Sounds2Print™ Structured Literacy Cohort Our signature structured literacy training is now IDA Accredited at the Accreditation Plus level, the highest recognition IDA offers. This program provides the tools you need to become a: Certified Structured Literacy Teacher Structured Literacy Specialist Structured Literacy Interventionist Join the interest list or explore current courses at: 👉 www.readingllcenter.com/professional-development Connect with Us The Reading & Language Learning Center Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review as it helps more families and clinicians find this content!

    22 min

  6. 12/03/2025

    Supporting Independent Learners with Karyn Ewart

    In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Karyn Ewart, licensed clinical psychologist and Founder of The Sycamore School, for a rich conversation about what it really takes to raise independent, resilient learners. Drawing from decades of experience as a school psychologist, therapist, clinical director, and head of school, Karyn unpacks the habits, mindsets, and family dynamics that shape a child’s ability to take ownership of their learning and their life. Karyn explains what it means to be an independent learner, emphasizing curiosity, self-awareness, and the ability to access and evaluate resources. She discusses why independence starts much earlier than most people think—even in toddlerhood—and how scaffolding, household routines, and even simple chores build the foundation for lifelong competence. Together, Tristen and Karyn explore why today’s parents often struggle with “doing too much,” how oversupervision can limit growth, and why unstructured time is essential for creativity and problem-solving. Karyn offers practical frameworks like “I do, we do, you do” and shares humorous and heartfelt stories from raising her own children, illustrating how mistakes, natural consequences, and even messy science projects become powerful learning moments. The discussion also tackles modeling independence through adult behavior, navigating developmental differences, fostering self-advocacy—especially for kids with learning differences—and helping teens prepare for real-world expectations like jobs, deadlines, and college-level support systems. Grounded in compassion, practicality, and real-life parenting wisdom, this episode offers families concrete tools to support independence while preserving connection, trust, and mental health. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What an “independent learner” truly is—and why curiosity and self-awareness matter How early independence begins and why toddlers often show the first signs The importance of scaffolding and letting children make (safe) mistakes Why household chores are foundational skills—not punishments The developmental benefits of unstructured time and boredom The risks of oversupervision and how to gradually remove “guardrails” How to balance stepping in vs. stepping back when kids struggle What the “I do, we do, you do” teaching model looks like in real families How modeling behavior (not just lecturing) shapes children’s independence Why natural consequences—even uncomfortable ones—build resilience How to support students with learning differences through accurate diagnosis, self-advocacy, and clarity about what they need When (and why) parents should not be their child’s academic tutor Strategies for helping kids transition from small tasks to complex responsibilities The role of self-advocacy in high school, college, and beyond How to identify your child’s temperament and match expectations accordingly Why part-time jobs can be transformative learning experiences The importance of boundaries—for kids and parents What it really means to accept your child “with clear eyes” and let them forge their own path About Karyn Ewart Karyn Ewart, Ph.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist and the Founder and Head of School at The Sycamore School in Arlington, Virginia. With a career spent in schools—as a therapist, clinical director, school psychologist, and head of school—Karyn brings a deep whole-child perspective to her work. She is passionate about supporting neurodiverse learners, helping families cultivate independence, and empowering students to understand themselves, advocate for their needs, and build meaningful life skills. Known for her clear, compassionate communication, Karyn bridges clinical insight with real-world parenting wisdom to help kids grow into capable, confident adults. Learn more at: thesycamoreschoolva.org Resources & Links The Sycamore School Website: https://thesycamoreschoolva.org   The Reading & Language Learning Center Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode!

    52 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    The Power of Structure & Movement for Kids with ADHD with Dr. Lisa Bennett

    In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Dr. Elizabeth (Lisa) Bennett, clinical psychologist at MindWell Psychology, to explore why many children with ADHD thrive when their days include intentional structure, movement, and supportive scheduling. Dr. Bennett explains ADHD in accessible language—describing executive function as the brain’s “manager” and using memorable analogies to illustrate both hyperactive and inattentive presentations. Together, she and Tristen unpack the phrase “keep ’em busy,” revealing its neurological basis and how movement, motor activity, and the right “gear” help children regulate and succeed. The conversation also explores research supporting structured activities, including the well-known Iceland Model, which demonstrated dramatic improvements in teen outcomes when communities increased access to supervised extracurriculars. Dr. Bennett and Tristen discuss what this means for younger children, particularly those with ADHD who benefit from consistent, growth-promoting routines. Blending research, clinical expertise, and personal reflection—including Dr. Bennett’s experience raising a highly active child—this episode offers compassionate, realistic tools for parents seeking balance between structure and overscheduling, as well as thoughtful guidance for families hesitant about ADHD medication. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What ADHD truly is and why executive function can be thought of as the brain’s “conductor” How understanding your child’s “gear” helps you match activities to their energy and attention needs The benefits of structured, supervised activities for children’s regulation, mental health, and safety How movement-based programs like Taekwondo, swimming, drumming, and performing arts build confidence and focus What research tells us about overscheduling vs. healthy involvement How parents can identify signs of burnout or overwhelm when schedules become too demanding A compassionate framework for thinking about ADHD medication options What to do when the “perfect” schedule falls apart — and how those moments still support growth About Dr. Elizabeth (Lisa) Bennett Dr. Elizabeth (Lisa) Bennett is a licensed clinical psychologist at MindWell Psychology in Chantilly, Virginia. With a professional background that spans preschool education, school psychology, and clinical psychology, she brings a holistic, whole-child perspective to her work with children and adolescents. Dr. Bennett specializes in ADHD, emotional regulation, developmental support, and helping families understand the individualized needs and strengths of their children. Known for her clear analogies and compassionate approach, she empowers families to create structure, balance, and routines that support healthy development. Resources & Links MindWell Psychology: https://mindwell.us Make sure to subscribe and follow us on social media so you never miss an episode! The Reading & Language Learning Center Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com  Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center

    43 min

  8. 11/05/2025

    From Overwhelmed to Empowered: How Brain-Based Therapy Helps Kids Think Clearer with Kellie Boyle

    In this episode of More Than Words, Tristen sits down with Kellie Boyle, LPC, founder of Reprocess Therapy, to talk about two powerful, brain-based therapies: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting. Kellie explains how both methods help children with learning challenges, ADHD, or anxiety quiet the “negative noise,” process early experiences, and build more confident, flexible thinking. She also shares insights on how parents’ own emotions can shape their child’s growth and how staying regulated and self-aware can make all the difference. What You’ll Learn What EMDR and Brainspotting are, and how they work in the brain How these therapies help kids reprocess negative self-beliefs Signs a child might benefit from EMDR or Brainspotting The unique needs of kids and teens with ADHD or learning differences How parent anxiety and self-talk can impact a child’s progress What a brain-based therapy session looks and feels like for kids How parents and professionals can work together to support whole-child growth About the Guest Kellie Boyle, LPC, is a licensed therapist and founder of Reprocess Therapy, where she specializes in EMDR and Brainspotting for children, teens, and parents. Her work focuses on helping clients release stuck emotions, reframe negative self-beliefs, and develop clearer, more confident thinking. Kellie frequently supports children with ADHD and learning differences and brings personal insight as a parent of a child diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of Speech. She’s passionate about helping families move from reactivity to resilience, one reprocessed thought at a time.   Links & Resources Kellie’s Practice, Reprocess Therapy: https://www.reprocesstherapy.com/  Kellie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reprocess_therapy/  Kellie’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-boyle-41aa156/  RLLC’s Website: http://www.readingllcenter.com  Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/readingllcenter  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWlbl8Ea8DJFADaNU9ZK1Vw  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-reading-and-language-learning-center  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show!

    49 min
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More Than Words is for parents and people working with children who notice that their child is struggling to keep up with their peers, be it academically, socially, or emotionally. In each episode, we share resources, guidance, and a sense of assurance on the path to helping your child.

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