Play-Based Communication Groups Led by a Speech Pathologist for
Caregivers and Children Ages 9 months - 3 years
Authentic Connections - by Chatterbox Speech Therapy - is a collection of small, supportive communication groups designed for caregivers and their little ones. Led by a licensed speech-language pathologist, these play-based groups offer developmentally-appropriate activities to nurture early communication skills, ease the overwhelm of toddler years,
and help families feel more confident and connected.
Perfect for any child! - whether your child is just starting to babble or chatting away
Each group is rooted in play, connection, and practical strategies you can take home and use right away.
You'll also have the chance to meet other local families navigating the same stages.
We offer four different groups, organized by age and developmental stage.
Explore below to find the class that is the perfect fit for you!
Families are welcome to rejoin the same class or series if they'd like to keep building community, revisit favorite activities, or connect with new families. When your child is ready, you can also transition to the next group!
Please contact us with any questions or if you need assistance selecting the most appropriate group.
Babble Babies
-
For babies 9-12 months who are not yet using words
-
Led by a certified speech-language pathologist
This small group is designed for babies who are not yet using words but are exploring sounds, gestures, and early back-and-forth communication. This group helps caregivers learn how to support their baby's communication through
everyday routines and play - with simple, practical strategies that fit naturally into your day.
Focuses on the earliest blocks of communication including:
-
Strengthening caregiver-child connections through face-to-face play and routines
-
Encouraging back-and-forth interactions (serve & return)
-
Supporting early gestures like pointing, reaching, and waving
-
Increasing sound play and babbling
-
Developing joint attention (looking at the same thing together)
Please contact us to find out dates for upcoming
pop-up classes and 4-week series!
Talking Tots
-
For toddlers 12-18 months who are beginning to use words
-
Led by a certified speech-language pathologist
Talking Tots is for children who are beginning to use words
- or just on the verge.
This group helps caregivers encourage early language and imitation skills through play, routines, and responsive interaction..
This group focuses on:
-
Expanding first words and word attempts
-
Using gestures and signs to support communication
-
Encouraging turn-taking and shared play
-
Modeling simple language during routines
-
Responding to your child's interests and communication
Please contact us to find out dates for upcoming
pop-up classes and 4-week series!
Building Blocks & Talk
-
For toddlers 18-24 months who are growing from words to early phrases
-
Led by a certified speech-language pathologist
This small group supports toddlers who are starting to combine words or who may need help moving beyond single words. Building Blocks helps caregivers encourage language growth through meaningful play, simple routines, and connection-driven strategies.
Building Blocks focuses on:
-
Expanding vocabulary and early word combinations
-
Supporting imitation of words and simple phrases
-
Encouraging play that promotes communication
-
Modeling and responding with developmentally appropriate language
-
Supporting toddlers through frustration and big feelings
Please contact us to find out dates for upcoming
pop-up classes and 4-week series!
Pretend Play Pals
-
For toddlers 2-3 years old who are using simple sentences and developing social skills
-
Led by a certified speech-language pathologist
Pretend Play Pals is for children using short phrases or sentences who are beginning to explore pretend play and social interaction. This group supports communication through imaginative play, storytelling, and early peer connection.
This small group focuses on:
-
Expanding sentence length and variety
-
Encouraging symbolic and pretend play
-
Supporting early social interactions and shared play
-
Building language for emotions, choices, and routines
-
Helping caregivers model and expand on their child's language
Please contact us to find out dates for upcoming
pop-up classes and 4-week series!
Things to Know:
-
One caregiver (parent, nanny, aunt, uncle, grandparent, etc.) is welcome to attend with each child
-
We kindly ask that the same caregiver attend each class. Please contact us if you have questions or need to request an exception.
-
Visitor parking is available in our lot, and there is additional residential street parking nearby (please check for street cleaning signs)
-
Please note: We can only accommodate 1-2 strollers. We recommend bringing a car seat or carrier for our littlest participants. Please contact us if you are planning to bring a stroller or other toddler transportation toy and we will do our best to accommodate!
-
The building's only bathroom is located upstairs and requires a key, which your SLP will provide.
-
We recommend you bring a small blanket, a water bottle, and any comfort items your child might need
-
Some activities involve sitting on the floor, singing, and playing! Comfortable clothes for both caregiver and child are encouraged.
-
Out of respect for all families, we ask that photos and videos not be taken during class without permission.
-
If your child or caregiver are unwell (fever, cough, runny nose, vomiting, etc.) we kindly ask that you stay home to keep our community healthy. While we are unable to offer refunds or make-up classes for missed sessions, you are welcome to join the session virtually through telehealth during your scheduled class time. Please contact us ahead of time so we can send you a secure link to join.
-
Lindberg Park is just a 5-minute walk away! Families are encouraged to bring snacks or lunch to enjoy a picnic and playtime after class.