Speech Pathology, Early Intervention and Oral Development with Paediatric Speech Pathologist Rita Shamoun | Episode 105

Early communication and oral development play a critical role in a child’s ability to learn, connect, and thrive. When challenges are identified early, families can better support speech, feeding, and overall development in ways that reduce stress and improve long-term outcomes. In this episode, I am talking to pediatric speech pathologist Rita Shamoun about how children develop communication skills, what early red flags parents should look for, and how feeding and oral habits impact speech, sleep, and behaviour. We also discuss early intervention, attachment, and how everyday parenting choices shape long-term development.   Rita and I chat about: How speech and language development actually differ and why both matter for communication• The role of early intervention and why supporting development before age three is critical• How feeding practices like baby-led weaning and cup drinking support oral strength and speech development• Why pouches, soft foods, and convenience feeding tools may impact jaw and swallowing development• The connection between oral development, sleep quality, attention, and behavioural regulation• How tongue ties, jaw development, and airway health can influence feeding and speech outcomes• Why play-based learning is essential for communication development and brain growth• How parents can support children who are older and may have missed early intervention windows• The importance of attachment, connection, and reducing pressure in supporting communication development Rita Shamoun is a paediatric speech pathologist who specializes in early intervention and communication development for children under seven. She supports families with language, speech, feeding, and developmental concerns in clinical practice. She is also the host of the podcast Wine with Rita, where she shares lived experiences from families raising children with additional needs and explores the emotional and practical realities of parenting.   Episode Links: Follow Rita Shamoun on Instagram Follow Wine with Wita on Instagram Listen to Wine with Rita Visit RS Speech Pathology   Come say hi to me on Instagram Free Motherhood Manifestation: Your Vibrant Life Manifestation  Books to Thrive in Motherhood: Dive into The Motherhood Reset, Nourished Mama, and Mama Let It Go to overcome burnout and become a healthy, energized mom.  Picky Eating Guide: Learn about common but lesser-known reasons kids are picky eaters and practical strategies to help children enjoy healthy foods. Resources I Am Loving The Brain Health Movement – Whole Child Healing Roadmap is a science-backed courses that decode the root causes of your child's struggles. Get £200 off with code WILDANDWELL MamaZen App – Become a happier and calmer mom through cognitive hypnotherapy, CBT, and mindfulness. Use code 9c  Fertility & Beyond – Natural solutions for your fertility struggles I would never recommend anything I don’t regularly use myself or trust completely. Some of the links are affiliate links, and others are special discount codes. Either way, all of these are products and resources I genuinely love and recommend.   Wild and Well with Dr Hilary Claire is a podcast dedicated to holistic health for moms, optimal health for women, postpartum recovery, and children’s wellness. We explore everything from gut health to pregnancy, functional health for women and postpartum wellness to nervous system regulation and motherhood burnout. Each episode offers practical tips for self-care for new moms, guidance on picky eating and parenting, and strategies to support your family’s natural kids’ health, so you can feel healthy, strong, and vital in motherhood while creating a foundation for lifelong wellness.