#139 How to Talk to Kids About Aphasia & Stroke Recovery with Lisa Samson

When a parent or loved one experiences aphasia after a stroke, it can be difficult for the entire family—especially children—to understand what’s happening. In this episode, Lisa Samson, an experienced speech-language pathologist and author of Listen with Your Heart: Helping Kids Understand Stroke and Aphasia, shares how families can support children through aphasia recovery. We explore practical ways to explain communication changes to kids, how her book provides an accessible tool for families, and strategies for fostering understanding and connection at home.

 

🔑 Key Takeaways:
✅ How aphasia impacts the entire family, including children
✅ Why kids need simple, honest explanations about communication changes
✅ The inspiration behind Listen with Your Heart: Helping Kids Understand Stroke and Aphasia and how it helps families
✅ Tips for care partners to encourage connection and understanding

 

💡 Action Step:
Take a moment to talk with your child about aphasia. Use simple language, encourage questions, and reassure them that communication happens in many ways. Consider using picture books or visual aids like Listen with Your Heart to support their understanding. Amazon link: https://a.co/d/eTgK0Aj

 

 

📌 Want to maximize recovery? Download our free guide: 3 Key Reasons Aphasia Therapy Never Stops
📌 Care partner support is here! Join our free 5-day email course: Chaos to Clarity

 

✨ Sponsor Acknowledgment:
This episode is brought to you by LIFE Aphasia Academy®, your go-to resource for expert-led education on aphasia, communication strategies, and connection.