The language-literacy program at the UNT Speech and Hearing Center, located at 907 W. Sycamore St. in Denton, helps prepare children for entry into kindergarten and first grade.

DENTON (UNT), Texas – Dr. Theresa Kouri, principal lecturer and clinical director for speech-language pathology in the University of North Texas College of Health and Public Service (HPS) Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology, is using evidence-based multi-sensory and traditional educational practices that have been proven highly effective in preventing reading delays and strengthening pre-literacy skills. The training strategies are appropriate for children regardless of their reading level and include guided language-literacy instructional activities in a curriculum that focuses on speech production, expressive and receptive language skills, as well as pre-literacy skills, such as phonemic awareness, sight word recognition and print awareness.

“Our preschool program has proven very effective in preparing children for the challenges associated with kindergarten and elementary literacy skill expectations, as reported by parents and educators,” Dr. Kouri said.

The UNT language-literacy preschool begins September 7 and will provide small group and individual session activities two mornings per week on either Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. Classes are from 9:30 a.m. to noon depending on a child’s programming needs and in most cases, preschool registration fees will be waived due to generous grants provided by the Scottish Rite and Caplan foundations.

To register for the program or for more information, call (940) 565-2262 or email Dr. Kouri at Theresa.Kouri@unt.edu.