Last week, my son started preschool. 🥹 It’s a funny feeling to say that out loud because he’s been in daycare since he was 14 months old — so in many ways, school isn’t a new thing for him. But somehow, this feels different. Maybe it’s the word preschool, maybe it’s the milestone of it all… or maybe it’s just the reality of watching your little one grow up.

The first day of school hits different when you have a toddler. Even if they’re not starting “real” school yet, the back-to-school season is full of changes—siblings heading out the door, new schedules, and a whole lot of big feelings (for both of you). The good news? This is also the perfect time to weave language-building moments into your day—without adding anything to your already-packed to-do list. Today, I’m sharing a few of my favorite back-to-school routines that no

If you’re anything like me, back-to-school season feels a little bit like a mix of hope, chaos, and a whole lot of “how is my baby this big already?” vibes. This time of year brings big changes—and even bigger feelings. As a speech therapist and mom of two little ones, I know transitions can bring all kinds of emotions—for kids and parents. So let’s talk about how to support your child’s communication, confidence, and connection as they step into a new routine.

Whether your little one is heading to preschool for the first time or just jumping back into routine after a summer of splash pads and popsicles, this transition can feel big—for both of you. As a pediatric speech therapist and a toddler mom myself, I’ve seen how just a few intentional steps can make a huge difference in helping our kids feel more confident, connected, and ready to thrive—especially when it comes to communication.