Resources
Blog Posts
The Hidden Connection: How Speech and Feeding Issues Are Intertwined
Have you ever wondered why your child struggles with both speech and eating? Or why they're constantly tired despite seemingly sleeping through the night? The answer might surprise you - it all comes down to something called "oral rest position." What is Oral Rest...
Therapy Isn’t Forever
Pediatric therapy shouldn’t be a lifelong commitment. This post discusses strategies for empowering families in speech disorders, autism communication, and early intervention. It is important to address root causes, implementing effective tools, and equipping parents with skills to support their child’s development, ultimately promoting long-term success beyond therapy sessions.
True/False on Tongue Ties
All tongue ties should be released. FALSE: Tongue ties should only be released when they are having symptoms and function is decreased. Sometimes tongue ties are all the way to the tip, however there are no side effects and the tongue still has full range of motion....
Does my child have a tongue tie and what should I do about it?
First, take this test: Right now at rest, is your tongue suctioned to the roof of your mouth? It should be. If it is suctioned to the roof, do you feel teeth? You shouldn’t. Are your lips closed? They should be. Proper oral rest position is your tongue suctioned to...
5 toys to help promote language development in young children
By Courtney Fagan M.S. CF-SLP Mr. Potato Head Mr. Potato head offers so many great opportunities to model language for your little ones. Some core words to work on when playing with Mr. Potato head are “on, off, put, big, little, in, out”. It is a great toy to use to...
When should you be concerned about stuttering?
We all have dysfluencies everyday! Very often people say “um,” “uh,” or “like” when they are trying to explain something to you. Even repeating the beginning of a sentence like, “Can you, Can you get bananas at the store?” while trying to recall information is normal....
Community Referral List
Early Steps
Early Steps is a free state-funded program for children under 3 with developmental delays. It provides comprehensive testing and support in your child’s natural environment, independent of medical insurance. https://floridaearlysteps.com/contact/ Phone: 1-800-218-0001
FDLRS/Child Find
FDLRS/Child Find serves children 3 to Pre-K with developmental delays. This free school system service offers therapy and early intervention programs, with transportation provided. https://www.fdlrs.org/find-a-centerPasco/Pinellas: 850-638-6131 Ext. 2222 Hillsborough: 813-837-7777
Children’s Medical Services (CMS)
CMS is a specialized Medicaid plan for children with complex healthcare needs. This program offers enhanced services tailored to your child’s specific requirements, including:
- A dedicated case manager who checks in monthly
- Comprehensive coverage for specialized treatments
- Coordinated care across multiple providers
You can switch to CMS at any time without waiting for re-enrollment. To explore this option, call Medicaid at 1-877-711-3662 and ask to speak with a representative about switching to CMS. Your child may qualify for this program, which could provide valuable additional support for their healthcare needs.
Unique Abilities Scholarship
The Unique Abilities Scholarship is a program designed to support children aged 3 and older with specific diagnoses, including speech delays, language delays, and autism. This scholarship is available for families choosing private school or homeschooling options. It provides approximately $9,000-$10,000 per year, which can be used for private school tuition, academic supplies, and therapies. This financial support can significantly help families access specialized education and support services for their children with unique learning needs. For more information and to apply, visit the Step Up For Students website at https://www.stepupforstudents.org/scholarships/unique-abilities/.
Mileage Reimbursement
Did you know Medicaid plans offer mileage reimbursement for medical appointments, including therapy sessions? https://mtm.mtmlink.net/#/
Free Genetic Testing
Genetics can be hard to get into and also very expensive. Here is a site that helps parents get the testing they need for their children: Probably Genetics
Autism Diagnosis
Autism evaluations are available from Developmental Pediatricians, Neuropsychologists, or Neurologists. Some providers include:
Developmental Pediatricians
- Dr. Joel Shulkin – John Hopkins All Children’s
- Dr. Ryan Baker – Pediatric Health Care Alliance
- Dr. Adam L. Huillet, MD – BayCare
Neuropsychologists
Neurologists
Tongue Tie Specialists/Airway Specialized Dentists
Orthodontists
Psychologists/Counseling
Want to be added to our community referral list? Contact us and let us know how you can help serve our patients.