Communicating about the Internet…and (of) Things like that
- 15
- November
- 2015
Last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to attend a very stimulating evening entitled, ‘Digitally Connected’ hosted by Network Cork and IT Cork at the Clarion Hotel. It was a very informative evening which highlighted opportunities and risks associated with the exponential growth of the internet, particularly as it becomes closer and closer to our lives. […]
read moreMind maps: What are they for and how to create them
- 17
- March
- 2015

Mind maps are an invaluable tool for students with language and literacy difficulties, and are a strategy that I often recommend in my reports. What are they for? Well what better way to explain, than to create a simple one to discuss the topic. Helping with understanding: Children with language […]
read moreFreeing the voice: Voice Care & Voice Projection workshop
- 04
- November
- 2014
For trainers, teachers, public speakers, amateur singers and actors…or anyone who relies on their voice for work or fun Saturday 22nd November, Bru Columbanus, Wilton, Co. Cork. 2.00-5.00pm Click here for more information.
read moreI am often asked about bilingualism by teachers, particularly in relation to children whose first language is not English, and it is now a topic that I always include on my summer teacher training courses at the West Cork Education Centre. Across the world, bilingualism (and multi-lingualism) is more common than monolingualism (one language). There are […]
read moreDavin, a movie supporting suicide awareness and prevention
- 12
- August
- 2014
This movie is the fifth feature from award-winning Irish film director Graham Jones entitled DAVIN which examines the reaction of an Irishman’s friends and family to the news of his suicide and is being made freely available on-line in 136 countries in advance of World Suicide Prevention Day 2014. The movie features a large ensemble cast of […]
read moreWhen a child isn’t talking, our focus is understandably drawn to the lack of speech…however, it is important that some pre-verbal skills, i.e. those that form the foundations for speech, are in place. One of these is joint attention. So what is joint attention? Well it’s where two people share the same focus of attention. Take for example, a toddler sees a caterpillar on the ground. He wants […]
read more“A lump in my throat…” “Feelings getting stuck in the throat…” “Choking back the tears…” Many metaphors associated with strong feelings use words relating to our voice or throat. Our body holds and expresses emotions, and our voice in particular is connected at a basic level to our emotions. Just think how easily you can […]
read moreA study recently published in the Journal Cancer, has found that writing lyrics and making videos teenagers to get through gruelling cancer treatment and to connect with others. Read more.
read more“Sure he’ll just grow out of it…wasn’t his father 5 before he said a word…and look at him now! Now have a cup of tea….ah go on….”
- 21
- January
- 2014

While this could be a quote from Mrs. Doyle in Father Ted, well meaning advice such as this may deter a parent from seeking help or advice from a speech and language therapist. Parents, caregivers, family members and/or professionals can sometimes feel unsure about when to refer to a speech and language therapist. I frequently get phone calls or […]
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