The Christmas season is upon us and my wishlist continues to grow! My SLP Christmas list is full of games, materials, and toys that make speech and language sessions fun and keep my learners engaged. Here are some recommendations for the SLP in your life. Take note and create your own SLP Christmas list!
MATERIALS
I can ALWAYS use more no or low-prep materials to have on hand. This comprehension task card bundle is one of my favorites. This bundle includes real pictures and visual choices. There are seasonal themes and three levels to work for all types of learners. Another one of my favorite materials to ask for is book companions. I love using these winter book companions because they include sequencing activities, vocabulary, and story maps. Book companions can be used across multiple sessions to target a variety of language goals. They have been a lifesaver to use with mixed groups of students!
TOYS
Working in an elementary school, I use toys in my sessions everyday. My most used toys that should be on every SLP’s Christmas list are a marble track and a barn with animals. My marble track (affiliate link) is a hit with all ages. It also creates fantastic opportunities to teach language and vocabulary. Younger students use it to request items by shape, size, and color. Older students work on prepositions and descriptive language when creating their track. Everyone loves seeing their creation in action when they let their marble go!
I found my barn and animals at Goodwill, but you can find one similar here (affiliate link). I use this weekly to target prepositions, labeling nouns and actions, using descriptive language, and more. This is also a super motivating activity that gets kids using their imagination while participating in speech. I highly recommend gifting the SLP in your life a barn!
GAMES
“Can we play a game today?” This is a daily direct quote from most of my students above second grade. I love a good game! My most used language game is Hedbandz Junior (affiliate link). This game is a great way for kids to put their vocabulary skills to the test in a fun way. Trouble (affiliate link) is a game that can be used with any skill and older learners get very competitive. It is great for 20 minute sessions, as it takes a little longer to complete. Before each turn, students must practice their skills (e.g., articulation, syntax, etc.). Lastly, Pop The Pig (affiliate link) is an absolute must for any SLP. My students have been requesting this game almost every day for the past two weeks! This game is very versatile and students of all ages love it. Pop The Pig is also a quick game, making it perfect for those 10 to 15 minute articulation sessions.
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
Creating a Christmas list as an SLP is easy to do, as mine could include a million items. The materials, toys, and games listed above are my absolute favorites. As you make your SLP Christmas list this year, make sure you check these items out and add them to your list! Happy Holidays!
