December Newsletter

Why December is a Great Time for Speech & Language? Winter and holiday season bring a natural boost in motivation for many kids. Whether it’s holiday stories, decorating, or sharing presents there are lots of chances for language use at home. These activities offer relevant vocabulary, social communication, and shared family conversation.

Despite the busyness, routine supports communication progress. Because kids may be home more often or spending extra time with family, these moments can become opportunities for informal practice practicing greetings, describing decorations, narrating events, and sharing holiday memories.

That makes now a great time for families to engage with us, or continue support, so holiday fun turns into language growth.

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Fun Family Activities: Combine Speech Practice + Cozy Winter Vibes

Here are a few easy, low-prep ideas to merge holiday fun, speech development, and emotional well-being:

Holiday Word Hunt: Hide seasonal items or picture cards around the house. Ask your child to find them and name them (e.g., “candle,” “snowflake,” “coat”), then describe shape, color, size, or use them in a sentence. Great for vocabulary & articulation.

Winter Story Time + WH-Questions: Read a holiday or winter-themed book together, then ask simple questions: “Who is in the story?”, “What’s happening?”, “Where are they going?” — builds comprehension and expressive language.

Calm-Down Corner + Breathing Breaks: After busy activities or holiday events, invite your child to a quiet space with pillows, soft lighting, or a favorite stuffed toy to do deep breathing or just decompress. Helps manage overstimulation and anxiety.

Gratitude Jar or Holiday Reflection: Each evening, as a family, share one good moment from the day. Invite your child to say or draw what made them smile encourages self-expression, emotional awareness, and narrative skills.

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Parent Corner: Caregiver Self-Care & Mental Health

You take care of everyone — but don’t forget yourself. As a caregiver, your calm and well-being significantly impacts your child’s sense of safety and emotional health.

-Take short breaks: a quiet walk, breathing exercise, reading, or anything that brings you calm.

-Manage expectations: It’s okay if the holidays don’t look perfect — let go of “all or nothing” holiday pressure.

-Connect with others: Share stresses, ask for help or even swap babysitting with a friend so each of you gets a breather.

-Model healthy coping: Kids learn by watching. Show them how you calm down, process emotions, and handle stress — it helps them build emotional tools for life.

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December Movie List for your Little One!

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December Craft: Winter and Holiday Magic!