More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child

The Reading and Language Learning Center
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Biweekly

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. Sep 23

    Decoding Early Screening Data & Taking Proactive First Steps with Dr. Helen Behr & Meg Shah

    Fall screening reports are starting to come home, but terms like below benchmark, at risk, DIBELS, and i-Ready can leave parents with more questions than answers. What are these assessments actually measuring, and what should happen when the results show that a child may need additional support? In this special episode of More Than Words, Tristen is joined by Dr. Helen Behr and Meg Shah. Together, they break down common early literacy screening data, explain how schools use results to plan instruction and monitor progress, and share practical ways parents can approach conversations with their child’s school. Most importantly, they explain why a screening result is a starting point for asking questions, not a diagnosis or final conclusion about a child's reading ability. What You'll Learn What DIBELS measures and why many of its early literacy tasks are timed What terms like at risk, below benchmark, and the red, yellow, green, and blue score ranges can tell you How Rapid Automatized Naming (RAN), phonemic awareness, phonics, and reading fluency contribute to the bigger picture How i-Ready differs from DIBELS and why schools may use both assessments What Tier 2 and Tier 3 reading support can look like when a student needs additional instruction Why progress monitoring matters and how schools determine whether an intervention is working What parents can ask teachers about screening results, goals, intervention, and next steps How to approach parent-teacher conversations with specific questions and genuine curiosity About Meg Shah Meg Shah is the Founder and CEO of MVS Educational Services, where she supports families and schools in building collaborative, student-centered plans. With over a decade of experience in education, Meg has worked as a teacher, special educator, and school leader within the DC charter school system. She also brings a unique background in law, which informs her structured, solution-oriented approach to advocacy. Meg specializes in helping parents navigate early concerns, communicate effectively with schools, and create actionable plans that support both academic and social-emotional growth. She is passionate about shifting conversations from reactive to proactive so children can thrive. About Dr. Helen Behr Dr. Helen Behr is the Director of the DCPS Reading Clinic. Dr. Behr earned a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Johns Hopkins University, and a Ph.D. in Education Leadership and Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin - Madison. In California, Maryland, Wisconsin, and Washington DC, Helen has worked as a teacher, instructional coach, and national literacy trainer before taking the helm at the DCPS Reading Clinic in June of 2022. The Reading Clinic provides educators with professional development and embedded coaching so they can implement research-based structured literacy instruction to readers learning to decode.  Links & Resources Meg Shah / MVS Educational Services Website: www.mvsed.com Instagram: @mvs.ed LinkedIn: Meg Shah Dr. Helen Behr LinkedIn: Dr. Helen Behr Resources Mentioned in This Episode Micro-conference toolkit Report Card Decoder For more resources and information from The Reading & Language Learning Center: Website: www.readingllcenter.com Facebook: @readingllcenter Instagram: @readingllcenter YouTube: The Reading & Language Learning Center LinkedIn: The Reading & Language Learning Center Subscribe, rate, and review More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child on your favorite podcast platform. It helps more parents and educators find practical information to support the children in their lives.

  2. Jun 10

    Why Some Children Struggle to Process What They Hear with McLean Speech & Language

    What does it mean when a child can hear perfectly well, but still struggles to follow directions, process spoken language, or learn in noisy environments? In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, host Tristen sits down with speech-language pathologists Kim Hiday and Rachel Saulle from McLean Speech & Language to unpack auditory processing challenges in children and adults. Together, they explain the difference between hearing and auditory processing, common signs parents and teachers may notice, how auditory processing difficulties can impact learning and daily life, and the therapy approaches and accommodations that can help. From classroom seating strategies to auditory integration training and speech-language interventions, this conversation offers practical insight for families trying to better understand how children process sound and language. Whether your child struggles to follow verbal directions, seems overwhelmed in noisy spaces, or has difficulty listening despite normal hearing tests, this episode provides a compassionate, evidence-informed starting point. What You’ll Learn ✨ The difference between hearing ability and auditory processing ✨ Common signs of auditory processing challenges in children ✨ Why some children “zone out” during listening-heavy tasks ✨ How auditory processing difficulties can affect reading, language, and learning ✨ What auditory processing evaluations may include ✨ Classroom accommodations that can support listening and attention ✨ Therapy approaches including speech-language intervention and auditory training ✨ What parents should do first if they suspect auditory processing difficulties About the Guests Kim Hiday, M.S., CCC-SLP and Rachel Saulle, M.S., CCC-SLP are speech-language pathologists at McLean Speech & Language who specialize in auditory processing, language development, literacy, and individualized intervention planning for children and adults. Their clinical work includes auditory processing evaluations, speech-language therapy, auditory integration training, and collaborative school-based supports. Together, they help families better understand how listening, language, and learning intersect, while creating personalized recommendations that support success across home, school, and community settings. Episode Highlights Kim explains that hearing and auditory processing are not the same thing. Hearing involves the ears detecting sound, while auditory processing refers to how the brain interprets and organizes what we hear. Rachel discusses how auditory processing difficulties may sometimes look like attention challenges, especially when children become overwhelmed by listening demands in the classroom. The conversation also explores how classroom environments, seating arrangements, and background noise can significantly impact a child’s ability to process spoken information effectively. Kim and Rachel share examples of interventions and accommodations that may support children with auditory processing needs, including speech-language strategies, auditory training, and individualized environmental supports. Resources & Links 🌐 McLean Speech & Language https://mcleanspeech.com 📸 Instagram: @McLeanSpeech 📘 Facebook: McLean Speech and Language 🌐 The Reading & Language Learning Center https://www.readingllcenter.com 📸 Follow RLLC on Instagram: @readinglanguagecenter 📘 Follow RLLC on Facebook: The Reading & Language Learning Center 🎧 Enjoying the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child wherever you listen to podcasts.

  3. May 27

    The Power of Personalized Learning with Joe Casamassima

    What if school didn’t have to look the way we’ve always imagined it? In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Joe Casamassima of Fusion Academy to explore the one-to-one school model and how it redefines what learning can look like for students. From personalized pacing to built-in social opportunities, Joe shares how this approach allows educators to truly meet students where they are academically and emotionally. They also dive into a powerful idea many parents need to hear: when a child is struggling in school, it may not be about ability, it may be about fit. Joe explains how flexible, individualized learning environments can reduce stress, increase engagement, and help students rediscover confidence in their learning. What You’ll Learn How one-to-one schooling works in a real school day Why traditional classrooms can create a mismatch for some learners The role of individualized pacing in reducing frustration and gaps How one-to-one learning supports both academic and emotional needs What kinds of students benefit from flexible school environments How socialization still happens and why it can be more intentional How schools can collaborate with therapists and outside supports Why finding the right school fit matters more than “pushing through” About the Guest Joe Casamassima is the Head of School at Fusion Academy Tysons, where he leads a one-to-one school model designed to meet students as individuals. He began his career in public education before moving into more personalized settings, including independent schools for at-risk youth, programs supporting students on the autism spectrum, and learning centers for teens working toward their GED. Joe previously served as Head of School at Fusion Academy San Mateo before relocating to Virginia to lead the Tysons campus. Across every role, he has focused on creating environments where students are seen, supported, and able to thrive. Outside of education, Joe has twice walked across the United States to raise awareness and funding for Multiple Sclerosis. He lives in Dunn Loring, Virginia with his wife and children. Links & Resources Fusion Academy:https://www.fusionacademy.com/ Tysons Campus: https://www.fusionacademy.com/campuses/tysons-corner/   If this episode helped you see your child’s learning in a new light, please subscribe, rate, and review on your podcast platform. It helps other parents and educators find tools that make daily life easier. 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

  4. May 13

    Is Your Child Over Capacity? Rethinking Pace, Pressure, and Growth with Casey Pina

    Parents today are doing more than ever to support their children, but what happens when all that support starts to feel like too much? In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, Tristen sits down with Casey Pina from Fusion Academy Alexandria to explore a powerful and often overlooked concept: capacity. While many families focus on schedules, structure, and achievement, Casey explains why true growth depends on something different, having enough space to learn, process, and recover. Together, they unpack how well-intentioned decisions around academics, extracurricular activities, and expectations can sometimes push children beyond their limits. You will learn how to recognize when your child may be overwhelmed, how to balance challenge with capacity, and what it really looks like to support your child’s development in a sustainable way. What You’ll Learn How to recognize when your child is overwhelmed by their schedule What “capacity” means and why it matters for learning and development The difference between healthy challenge and overload Signs your child’s pace may not match their developmental needs Why growth requires space, not just structure and activity How high expectations can unintentionally create pressure Practical ways to adjust your child’s schedule without pulling everything away A simple question every parent should ask when making decisions about activities About Casey Casey Pina is the head of school at Fusion Academy Alexandria, where she works closely with students and families to create individualized learning environments that support both academic growth and overall well-being. With a focus on meeting students where they are, Casey specializes in helping learners who may not thrive in traditional school settings, particularly those experiencing overwhelm, burnout, or mismatched expectations. She is passionate about helping families better understand each child’s unique capacity, pace, and potential, and guiding them toward more sustainable, student-centered approaches to education. Links If this episode helped you rethink your child’s schedule or see their needs in a new light, please subscribe, rate, and review on your podcast platform. It helps other parents and educators find tools that support the whole child. Casey Pina Fusion Alexandria: https://www.fusionacademy.com/campuses/alexandria/ Casey’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-pina-4751a525/  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

  5. Apr 29

    From Concern to Collaboration: How Parents Can Proactively Partner with Schools with Meg Shah

    Starting a conversation with your child’s school can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure how your concerns will be received. In this episode, we talk with Meg Shah about how parents can approach school communication in a way that builds trust, clarity, and true collaboration from the very beginning. Meg shares practical strategies and real-life language parents can use to communicate concerns without creating defensiveness. From writing your first email to navigating moments when conversations feel stalled, this episode focuses on how to partner with your child’s school in a proactive, solution-oriented way. If you’ve ever worried about saying the “wrong” thing, being perceived as “that parent,” or not knowing how to move a conversation forward, this episode will give you the tools and confidence to advocate effectively while maintaining strong relationships with your child’s educators. What You’ll Learn How to recognize early signs your child may be struggling at school Why kids can present differently at home versus in the classroom Common reasons parents hesitate to reach out to schools What to say in your first email to a teacher (with specific examples) How to respond when a school says “we’re not seeing that” Ways to keep conversations collaborative instead of adversarial How to break big concerns into small, actionable steps Mindset shifts that make parent–school communication more effective More about Meg Meg Shah is the Founder and CEO of MVS Educational Services, where she supports families and schools in building collaborative, student-centered plans. With over a decade of experience in education, Meg has worked as a teacher, special educator, and school leader within the DC charter school system. She also brings a unique background in law, which informs her structured, solution-oriented approach to advocacy. Meg specializes in helping parents navigate early concerns, communicate effectively with schools, and create actionable plans that support both academic and social-emotional growth. She is passionate about shifting conversations from reactive to proactive so children can thrive. Links & Resources Meg Shah Website: www.mvsed.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mvs.ed/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-shah-mvsed/  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

  6. Apr 15

    Parent Mental Health: The Secret to Raising Regulated Kids with Stephanie Kaiser

    When parents are overwhelmed, stressed, or running on empty, it does not just affect them. It impacts the entire family dynamic. In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, we sit down with therapist Stephanie Kaiser to talk about a topic that often gets overlooked: parent mental health. Instead of focusing only on strategies for children, this conversation shifts the lens back to the parent. Stephanie shares why taking care of your own mental health is one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s emotional development, behavior, and overall well-being. We also break down what therapy actually looks like, how change happens, and where parents can realistically start. If you have ever felt burnt out, reactive, or unsure how to better support your child, this episode offers both reassurance and practical next steps. What You’ll Learn Why parent mental health directly impacts child behavior and development How stress and burnout show up in parenting moments What actually happens in therapy and how it creates change Common patterns parents fall into without realizing it How to respond differently when you feel overwhelmed Realistic ways to start prioritizing your mental health The connection between self-regulation and your child’s regulation A simple mindset shift that can reduce stress at home About the Guest Stephanie Kaiser is a psychotherapist who works with adults, with a focus on supporting parents as they navigate stress, emotional regulation, and personal growth. Drawing from her background in child and adolescent mental health, she helps parents better understand how their own experiences, habits, and emotional patterns influence their children. Stephanie is passionate about making therapy feel accessible and helping families create healthier, more supportive environments by starting with the parent. Links & Resources If this episode helped you see your role as a parent in a new way, please subscribe, rate, and review on your podcast platform. It helps other parents and educators find support and practical tools. Mid-Atlantic Psychotherapy: https://midatlanticpsychotherapy.com/  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

  7. Mar 18

    AAC Evaluations: Process, Progress, and Myths with Carleton Levert

    In this episode of More Than Words, we take a closer look at what actually happens during an AAC evaluation and why it is much more than choosing a device. Speech-language pathologist Carleton Levert walks us through the full process, from initial referrals and case review to device trials, observations, and recommendations. We also explore what makes AAC successful in real life, including team collaboration, personalization, and ongoing support. Along the way, Carleton addresses common myths that can delay access to AAC and shares practical ways families and professionals can better support communication across environments. What You’ll Learn What an AAC evaluation looks like from start to finish Why AAC evaluation includes language, motor access, vision, hearing, and environment The role of device trials in finding the right communication system How collaboration with OTs, teachers, and caregivers supports success Red flags that an AAC system is not truly being used or supported Why personalization and buy-in are essential for meaningful communication How AAC support should evolve as a child grows and changes Common myths about AAC, including funding, readiness, and perceived ability About the Guest Carleton P. Levert, M.S., CCC-SLP is a licensed speech-language pathologist based in Washington, D.C. He is the founder of We Ask Speech, where he provides speech-language therapy and AAC services across school, clinic, and community-based settings. Carleton works with individuals across the lifespan and is especially passionate about functional communication and real-world application of AAC. His approach emphasizes collaboration, personalization, and empowering individuals to communicate across environments. Outside of his clinical work, he values community-based care and creative ways to support communication in everyday life. Links & Resources Carleton’s Website: https://weaskspeech.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/we_ask_speech/ DC Assistive Technology Program: https://odr.dc.gov/page/assistive-technology-resources  If this episode helped you see your child’s communication, learning, or behavior in a new light, please subscribe, rate, and review on your podcast platform. Your support helps other parents, educators, and clinicians find tools and conversations that make daily life a little easier. To learn more about services, resources, and upcoming programs, visit us online and connect with us on social media:  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

  8. Mar 4

    Demystifying Psychoeducational Evaluations with Megan Davis

    Psychoeducational evaluations can sound intimidating for families, but they are designed to do something very important: help us understand how a child learns. In this episode of More Than Words: Treating the Whole Child, host Tristen speaks with licensed school psychologist Megan Davis about what psychoeducational evaluations really are and how they help uncover the strengths and challenges that shape a child’s learning experience. Megan explains how these evaluations look at the whole child by examining cognitive skills, academic performance, executive functioning, and social-emotional development. She also walks through what parents and children can expect during the evaluation process, how private evaluations differ from school-based testing, and when it might be the right time to consider an evaluation. If you have ever wondered whether your child might benefit from an evaluation or felt unsure about what the process involves, this conversation helps remove the mystery. Megan reframes evaluations as a tool for understanding and advocacy, giving families a clearer path forward to help their child thrive. What You’ll Learn 🔎 What a psychoeducational evaluation is and the questions it helps answer about a child’s learning 🧠 The different components of an evaluation, including cognitive, academic, executive functioning, and social-emotional assessments 👪 What parents and children can expect during the evaluation process from intake to feedback 📊 Signs that it may be time to consider an evaluation for your child 🏫 How private psychoeducational evaluations differ from school-based evaluations 📚 How evaluation results can help families advocate for support at school, in therapy, and at home 💡 Why diagnoses are not about labeling children but about creating clarity and access to the right supports About the Guest Megan Davis, Licensed School Psychologist, is the co-owner of Counseling and Assessment Practice of Fairfax (CAP Fairfax). She has over 20 years of experience in school psychology, including 15 years working in public schools before transitioning into private practice. Megan specializes in comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations that help families better understand how their children learn and what supports will help them succeed. In addition to her clinical work, Megan supervises graduate students at George Mason University, helping train the next generation of school psychologists. Her work focuses on providing clear, practical insights that help families navigate complex educational and developmental systems while supporting each child’s unique strengths. Links & Resources Counseling and Assessment Practice of Fairfax Website: https://capfairfax.com Social Media Instagram: @capfairfax Facebook: @capfairfax More Than Words is brought to you by The Reading & Language Learning Center, where we believe in treating the whole child. Website: https://www.readingllcenter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/readingllcenter Instagram: https://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 the podcast so more families can find these conversations and resources.

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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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