June 2022

Pre-K language literacy program aims to prevent reading challenges in children ages 4 to 6

The UNT Speech and Hearing Center, located at 907 W. Sycamore St. in Denton, is now registering children for its Fall language and literacy enrichment program.

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, and her team are using evidence-based multi-sensory and traditional educational practices that have been proven highly effective in preventing reading delays and strengthening pre-literacy skills. 

Dr. Kouri says the testimonials from parents speak volumes.

“One parent from the past year’s program said, ‘My child now writes messages and letters every day. She is wanting to learn and practice letter, writing, and speech. She asks about letters and how to spell words. The amount she has learned during this academic year is incredible.’ This is what we strive for with our children,” Dr. Kouri said.

The program will provide small group and individual session activities two mornings per week – either Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday – beginning Sept. 12 for children ages 4 to 6. The program will target early-language and literacy concepts, phonemic awareness, print awareness and other literacy skills necessary for a successful transition into kindergarten and first grade educational curriculums.

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 or for more information, call (940) 565-2262 or email Dr. Kouri at theresa.kouri@unt.edu

https://hps.unt.edu/sites/default/files/news-thumbs/prek.jpg

Stuttering support group to offer adults free resources, encouragement

The group is meant to help reduce feelings of uncertainty and isolation for adults who stutter. 

DENTON (UNT), Texas – The University of North Texas College of Health and Public Service Department of Audiology and Speech-Language Pathology is offering a support group for adults who stutter beginning July 6 at 6 p.m. Monthly meetings will be held at the UNT Speech and Hearing Center, located at 907 W. Sycamore St. in Denton, and will focus on support, education and resources.

“The UNT Speech and Hearing Center is very excited to collaborate with the National Stuttering Association to bring a much-needed support group chapter to this area,” said Stacy Nunnelee, senior lecturer and undergraduate director of speech-language pathology. “This group will serve any adult in the metroplex who is looking for support and camaraderie for their stuttering. We hope to grow strong in numbers and help people who stutter find a group where they can feel safe and comfortable and help each other through the challenges and joys of communication.”

The National Stuttering Association (NSA) is the largest nonprofit organization in the world dedicated to bringing hope and empowerment to people who stutter, their families and professionals through support, education, advocacy and research. The support group is the first of its kind in the region.

For more information, contact Nunnelee at stacy.nunnelee@unt.edu or call 940-565-2481.

https://hps.unt.edu/sites/default/files/news-thumbs/a002c036_210108t5_canon.00_00_25_41.still001.jpg