Speak Out December 2020

Members put language and literacy front and centre

Throughout November the role of speech pathologists in language and literacy development was “front and centre” with more than 65 Speechie Library Talks conducted by members across the country. The Speechie Library Talks campaign is an initiative of the Association’s Communications and Marketing team in collaboration with the Australian Library and Information Association. More than 8 00 people took part in the sessions, either online via the library or the Association’s digital platform, or face-to-face at local libraries in states where COVID-19 restrictions allowed. The aim of the annual campaign, held in conjunction with the Speech Pathology Australia Book of the Year awards, was to connect members with their local library, and highlight the role of speech pathologists in language and literacy development. Members provided tips and information to parents and carers on how to read with their children at home. The campaign also showcased the Association’s Book of the Year Awards and the role of libraries in building language and literacy skills.

To date the feedback from parents and carers has been overwhelmingly positive with many pleased to have the opportunity to access the knowledge and skills provided by Association members, and to find out about the Book of the Year winning books. Members conducting the sessions also reported that taking part was a great experience and an opportunity to further connect with their local community. Members utilised a presentation developed by the Association’s Communications and Marketing team in consultation with Dr Michelle Brown. The presentation slides were also made available after each event to attendees. Each of the Speechie Library Talks presentations included a book reading of one of the Book of the Year winning books. The majority of the talks focused on the 3-5 age group with the winning book in that category, Charlie’s Shell , giving members the chance to create a fun and informative book reading for attendees. In addition to the Speechie Library Talks, the Association’s Professional Education team created

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Speak Out | December 2020