Hey Friends~  This episode is part 2 of the series “When Communication is Hard.”    Today we’re talking about childhood apraxia of speech and other motor speech disorders—what they are, and why speech can be so effort-filled for some kids. If your child knows what they want to say but can’t consistently get the words out, this episode will help you understand what’s really going on beneath the surface.  We’ll also talk about why “just practice” often backfires and what kinds of support actually help at home. I am glad you are here, your child will be, too!  Always cheering you on!  Dinalynn CONTACT the Host, Dinalynn:  [email protected] COMMENT? QUESTION?  Leave a voice message!  https://castfeedback.com/play WANT TO WORK WITH ME?  Let’s talk:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/strategy-session   MORE RESOURCES I APPROVE AND YOU MAY LOVE:   February - Honoring & Highlighting Children’s Authors  Constance Lewis: Emotions   Connect: https://www.colorfulcapesoffeelings.com/ Jason Heffler: Children's Speech Disorders   Connect: linktr.ee/jasonheffler Terry Lilga:  Rhyming   Connect: https://terrililgabooks.com/ Claire Miller: Storytelling With Kids   Connect: www.clairemillerauthor.co.uk   Rella B:  Life Lessons   Connect:  https://rellabbooks.com/   “Bye to Burnout Bundle” for the Homeschool Moms Sign up for Resources! Included is your entrance into my talk with Q&A titled, “Does My Homeschool Child Qualify for Speech Therapy?” I will talk plainly about qualifications and answer your questions.  Bundle Quick Link: https://www.maliaphelpswaller.com/bye-to-burnout-bundle Sign up for a family trip to Costa Rica!!   2026 is a year for deeper connection at Family Talks Retreat in Costa Rica 🌿 ✔ Meaningful conversations, ✔ Nature-based experiences, ✔ Build courage + confidence, ✔ Create your Signature Talk (pro filmed)  Learn more:  https://charity.pledgeit.org/familytalksretreat Use checkout code for your savings (Valid thru Feb 28, 2026) PLAY26ME – $500 savings for an Individual Ticket PLAY26FAMILY – $1,000 savings for a Family of Four Listen to 205 Jackie Bailey: Your Vacation Is An Education - Let’s Maximize it in Costa Rica!   IF YOU LIKED THIS EPISODE, HERE ARE OTHER AUTHOR YOU WILL ENJOY: 226 Constance Lewis: Using Colors To Get Through Big Feelings 214 Wonder About Stuttering and Fluency? Jason Heffler Shares What Is Helpful From Personal Experience 218 Terri Lilga: Why Is Rhyme So Important? Using Literature To Teach Beyond The Words 243 Claire Miller: The Power of Storytelling to Build Confidence & Connection 252 Rella B: You Get the Work Done, They Think It’s Play - Turning Chores Into Connection   YOUR NEXT STEPS:   5 Ways To Get Your Kids To Listen Better: https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/7ca5ce43-d436ea91 “Play is…” downloadable:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/94b4e662 Newsletter Sign up:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/newsletter-optin 21 Days of Encouragement:  https://dinalynnr.systeme.io/1-21signup For Workshops, Speaking Events, or Partnerships:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session ** For Speaking Engagements, Workshops, or Parent Coaching (virtual or live), contact me at [email protected]   SUBSCRIBE, REVIEW, SPONSOR, DONATE:  Love this podcast?  Let us know!  https://lovethepodcast.com/play Subscribe & Follow in 1-click!  https://followthepodcast.com/play To SPONSOR The Language Of Play, schedule your call here:  https://calendly.com/hello-play/discovery-session To DONATE to The Language Of Play, Use this secure payment link: https://app.autobooks.co/pay/the-language-of-play