Using Books with Preschool Students in Speech Therapy with Jenna Rayburn – Episode 49

When we share our picture book selections with you all, we try to pick books that target a wide variety of students. However, sometimes, you’re looking for books that target a certain age group of students. So, to help you out, we have our first guest on the podcast, Jenna Rayburn. She is an early childhood SLP, a lover of picture books, and has many helpful resources in her TPT store. Jenna has a wealth of knowledge and, in today’s episode, is sharing the qualities she looks for in books and ways of using books with preschool students in speech therapy.

Having students that are preschool-aged, you’re working on different skills that require you to use different types of books during speech therapy. Jenna is engulfed in using books with preschool students, so she shares the qualities she looks for when selecting books and what she tends to stay away from. She also provides examples of some of her favorite books.

Additionally, as SLPs, we constantly need to collaborate with classroom teachers, paraprofessionals, and other staff members. Jenna highlights a critical tip that builds relationships with teachers while also doing what benefits her students the most. So, if you’re looking for new picture books to add to your library to use with preschool students, Jenna is your girl, and this episode is for you!

Topics Discussed:

• The different qualities Jenna looks for when selecting picture books for preschool students and what she stays away from
• Tips for collaborating with the different groups of teachers and support staff that benefit the students 
• Jenna’s favorite go-to books and suggestions for older students with a lower communication level
• Ways to incorporate literacy when using an AAC device and what to focus on