02 Mar 15 |
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Today’s post is from Nicole Allison, MA, CCC-SLP. She currently works in a public school and is the author of the blog Allison’s Speech Peeps (speechpeeps.com). She also serves on OSSPEAC as media chair.
In a world where technology constantly changes, it can be difficult to keep up with social media or even see the need for it. I’m slow to change. Okay, actually, I hate change. However, I’ve realized that setting small goals for myself with social media has opened up a world of resources at my fingertips.
Benefits of Social Media:
Here are some benefits I have found using social media for speech language therapy.
Resources:
Below is a list of resources that I use in my quest to find resources on social media.
Facebook:
Facebook groups are great because therapists (like you) can collaborate among thousands of other therapists. I highly encourage you to try these out. I have asked questions on these threads about scheduling issues, a particular case, and preferences in tests. Remember to keep all names and sensitive material confidential though!
Just search for these groups on Facebook and ask to join.
Here are some Facebook groups that I am part of:
Pinterest:
This is my go-to when I am looking for a great craft or bulletin board idea. Search and follow collaborative boards on a subject that you are interested if you don’t want to follow individuals. Here are a few of my favorites:
Instagram:
Instagram is a new adventure for me but I am LOVING it. It quickly shows you pictures of therapy ideas and insight into what others are doing. It’s also easy to navigate by searching for hashtags (#).
Search the following hashtags for resources:
Blogs are my favorite because of the vast amount of information you gain by following them. One website that is really beneficial is called Bloglovin. After you sign up, you call search and follow your favorite blogs. Once a week, you’ll receive an email from Bloglovin with any new posts from your favorite blogs. It’s a great way to stay on top of new information without being overwhelmed.
Twitter:
Twitter is still an outlet that I’m exploring. Twitter also uses hashtags to make topics easy to search. Search #slpeeps and #wespeechies to join conversations.
Small Steps:
Joining the world of social media can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be. Here is a list of some small steps to get you started on your new adventure:
I hope you’re walking away with a few ideas! And…because OSSPEAC would love to see you get involved with speech therapy social media, they are having a special giveaway going below for members only (yes, it definitely pays to be a member of OSSPEAC!) They got together with 16 bloggers to give away a bundle of materials worth $100! Make sure to “like” their facebook page to enter!
I would love to hear how you’re using social media in the comments below!
6 Responses to “The Benefits of Social Media to SLPs {And Giveaway!}”
Jenna
Thanks for this great article Nicole! I’m happy to be donating to the raffle! Social media and having hundreds of SLPs at my fingertips has made me such a better SLP!
Nicole Allison
Thanks Jenna! I appreciate you donating!
JCheek
Nice article; I appreciate the summary of social media resources and uses! Social media resources have certainly changed my therapy…access to low cost, interesting materials; collaboration/consult with other SLPs; and easy access to information. Thanks to all of you SLPs who spend your time and talents to benefit us all!
Nicole Allison
Thank you for reading and taking the time to comment!
Sarah
Nicole,
Thank you for your article and your ideas for getting connected online. I am looking forward to
joining some of the Facebook groups you mentioned, especially for the middle school population.
I have also just started using Instagram and am loving all of the ideas posted by amazing SLPs
on a daily basis. Keep up the great work!
Sarah
Nicole Allison
Thanks so much Sarah!