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Classes & TalksSaturday, November 14

Toddler Talk - Fall 2026

Saturday, November 14 · 9:30-10:15 a.m. · Main Street Counseling

9:30-10:15 a.m.
When
  • Saturday, November 14 · 9:30-10:15 a.m.
Where
Main Street Counseling444 N Northwest Hwy suite 333 · Park Ridge, IL · 60068
Good to know
$42Family friendly

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About this event

Class Dates:

Saturday, May 2 | 9:00 – 9:45 AM

Class Overview:

Toddler Talk is designed to support parents and caregivers who want to help their child’s language grow—but aren’t always sure what to say or how to support communication during everyday moments.

This class is designed for parents and caregivers of toddlers ages 12–36 months — whether this is your first child or you’re navigating this stage again.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your child is “on track,” felt unsure how to encourage talking without pressure, or noticed frustration around communication, this class offers clear, supportive guidance.

During this workshop, we’ll explore how language develops during the toddler years and how simple, intentional interactions can support communication. Rather than relying on special tools or structured activities, we focus on realistic strategies that fit naturally into play, routines, and daily life.

After attending, many parents feel more confident, empowered, and reassured. You’ll leave with a better understanding of your child’s communication and simple ways to support their language development through connection and everyday interaction.

Led by pediatric speech-language pathologist, Olivia Hallagan, MS, CCC-SLP , this class brings both clinical expertise and practical, real-life strategies to help families feel supported and confident during the toddler years.

A Supportive, Practical Approach:

This class is supportive, approachable, and free of pressure. There are no expectations for children to “perform,” and toddlers are welcome to explore, observe, participate—or not—at their own pace.

Caregivers learn alongside their child through guided play, modeling, and real-life examples. Every child develops differently, and this class honors that while providing practical tools to support communication in a calm, playful, and meaningful way.

All caregivers are welcome, questions are encouraged, and the environment is designed to feel warm, inclusive, and non-judgmental.

Class Format:

Interactive, hands-on workshop where caregivers participate alongside their child through play-based activities, guided modeling, and real-life examples.

There will be opportunities for both group discussion and individualized support, with time for questions throughout the class.

Topics include:

• Understanding how language develops between 12–36 months

• What typical communication progress can look like (with flexible ranges)

• Encouraging language through play and everyday routines

• Responding to sounds, gestures, early words, and emerging phrases

• Supporting emotional regulation and reducing frustration around communication

• Recognizing communication strengths as well as potential red flags

• Using everyday interactions to build connection and language

Classes are held in a small group setting to allow for discussion and individualized guidance.

Each registration covers the parent(s) and child, with a support person welcome if needed.

What Participants Will Gain:

Participants will learn:

• How to support their toddler’s communication through play and everyday routines

• What language development typically looks like between 12–36 months

• Simple, realistic strategies to encourage talking without pressure

• How to respond to their child’s communication in supportive and meaningful ways

• Tools to reduce frustration and support emotional regulation

• A greater sense of confidence, reassurance, and connection with their child

Who This Class Is For:

This class is a great fit for:

• Parents and caregivers of toddlers ages 12–36 months

• First-time parents looking to better understand toddler development

• Parents of multiple children who want additional tools or reassurance

• Families who want to support communication in a natural, play-based way

• Caregivers with questions about their child’s communication or language development

Recommended Timing:

This class is appropriate anytime between 12–36 months. Families are welcome to attend whenever they are looking for guidance, reassurance, or new ways to support their child’s communication.

What Families Receive:

Participants receive:

• An interactive, play-based class led by a pediatric speech-language pathologist

• Evidence-based education on toddler communication and language development

• Practical strategies that can be used immediately during everyday routines

• Opportunities for individualized support and guidance

• A supportive, judgment-free environment for learning and connection

• A take-home resource guide with key strategies and ideas

What To Bring:

• Yourself and your toddler

• Any snacks, drinks, or comfort items your child may need

• Comfortable clothing for both you and your child

• A completed pre-class questionnaire (sent ahead of time) to help tailor the experience

All other materials will be provided.

Cost + Cancellation Policy:

Cost:

$40 per parent/toddler pair (+ credit card processing fee)

Each registration includes the parent(s) and toddler. A support person is also welcome to attend if a parent is unable to join.

Cancellation Policy:

Listed by mainstcounselingsolutions.com (Wix Events), gathered by the Naperville events calendar.