In November 2022, SS4Kids was presented as an educational webinar at the ASHA National Convention (American Speech Language Hearing Association) by David Sonnenschein (CEO iQsonics), Dr. Hayoung Lim (NMT, PhD Music Therapy, Oral Roberts U.) and Dr. Erica Ellis (CCC-SLP, PhD Communication Disorders, CSULA. The main focus of their presentation was to showcase the research funded by US Dept. of Education and the real life applications of the SS4Kids program. Our well-attended webinar continues to be available to ASHA members for the next 5 years for professional development and Continuing Education credits.
We are very grateful to be recognized by this national association for our evidence-based program that supports early childhood speech development as a supplement tool for SLPs and other professionals. Several attending SLPs asked us important questions and we’d like to share our responses below.
SS4Kids follows the DSLM (Developmental Speech Language Training through Music, Lim 2012, Jessica Kingsley Publisher) criteria for word selection (e.g. request motivating things, routine independent living, common environment, express feelings, etc.). Most frequent or common words were chosen from early childhood vocabulary lists such as Dolche and Fry, focusing on words used in daily activities (e.g. food, body parts, transportation).
There is a range of difficulty of the words for both speech production and language usage, currently randomized throughout the songs. We are upgrading the system so users can identify easier target words/songs in the menu and then move to more challenging words/songs through game-based learning. The parent or clinician will be able to select the song choice based on the individual child’s initial level or area of interest.
All the words are available to review inside the SS4Kids program menu, and when selected will link to the associated song.
More Q&A coming soon!
