Pamela Shanks
Supporting Language Development: From Baby’s First Words to Flourishing Conversations
Language learning seems almost magical, as children appear to simply absorb the language of their caregivers. Language is a critical part of overall development because it is directly related to behavioral, cognitive, and academic development. We are the material, so how we interact with children makes a difference. By adopting simple practices, we can foster the development of language.
This session will outline typical development and identify when to be concerned. The majority of the session, however, will focus on things you can do to recognize, foster, and support the communicative abilities of our youngest learners.
AUDIO VERSION

Pamela Shanks
Pam Shanks, M.S. Ed. (she/her), specializes in inclusive Montessori education. She provides professional development and consultative services for Montessori schools and teachers serving children whose learning or development differs from their peers. Facilitating the connection between Montessori and every child is the focus of her work.
During her 30+ years in Montessori education, Pam has worked as a teacher, administrator, coordinator of a schoolwide inclusion program, and mentor for Montessori and special education teachers/interns. These experiences have culminated in a deep understanding of the Montessori method, inclusive schools, and inclusive education.
Pam's newest book is The Montessori Approach to Classroom-Based Interventions: A Handbook for Educators, Administrators, Service Providers, and Families of Children Whose Development is Impacted by Delay and Disability, foreword by David Kahn. In it, she draws on her extensive experience as a Montessori educator to offer a powerful, research-informed handbook for supporting children with developmental differences. Blending time-tested Montessori principles with modern educational strategies, this comprehensive resource provides educators, administrators, service providers, and families with the tools they need to create respectful, inclusive, and dynamic learning environments. This handbook is an indispensable companion for anyone dedicated to helping all children reach their fullest potential. It is available on Amazon and from Parent Child Press, a division of Montessori Services.
Discussion
Your questions will be answered after the conference.