Mr. Andrzej Lewandowski CCC-SLP, MHS

Speech-Language Pathologist

2860 S River Rd Des Plaines IL, 60018 Show map

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Dempster's "Chicago Speech Therapy" now in Chicago Northwest Suburbs! Face-to-face and online speech therapy services. Dempster Therapeutic Services offers high quality one-on-one therapy services in Chicago & surrounding suburbs for a range of speech and language disorders such as articulation disorders, phonological disorders, stuttering, and expressive and receptive speech and language delays. Its founding speech therapist, Andrzej Lewandowski, MHS, MA, CCC-SLP/L, PEL, Polskojezyczny Logopeda w Chicago® is an award-winning Illinois Early Intervention bilingual (Polish and English-speaking) speech therapy provider and a certified member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and has worked in multiple environments.

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Mr. Andrzej Lewandowski CCC-SLP, MHS

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15 Tips for At-Home Speech Practice (and When to Do a Speech Evaluation)
Parents play a vital role in nurturing our child's speech and language skills. Encouraging language development at home sets the foundation for effective communication and helps children thrive in various aspects of their lives. In this blog post, we'll share 15 tips for at-home speech practice...

Is late talking a problem?
Late talking in children can be a concern, but it's important to approach the issue with an understanding that every child's development is unique. As a licensed speech-language pathologist, I can provide some insights into this matter. Late talking, often referred to as late language emergence or late language development, is when a child's language skills are significantly behind their peers for their age. Here are some key points to consider: Variability in Development: Language development varies among children. Some children may begin talking later than others and still catch up to their peers by the time they enter school. Early Intervention: While late talking can sometimes resolve on its own, early intervention can be highly beneficial. If a child is significantly behind in their language development, seeking guidance from a speech-language pathologist is advisable. Early intervention can help identify any underlying issues and provide strategies to support language development. Red Flags: There are certain red flags to be aware of, such as a lack of gestures (e.g., pointing or waving), limited attempts at communication, or difficulty understanding and following simple instructions. If a child exhibits these signs along with late talking, it's essential to seek professional evaluation. Possible Underlying Issues: Late talking can sometimes be an early indicator of other developmental issues, such as autism spectrum disorder or specific language disorders. An evaluation by a speech-language pathologist or a developmental specialist can help rule out or identify such conditions. Parental Concern: If parents or caregivers have concerns about their child's language development, it's essential to trust their instincts and seek professional advice. Parents are often the first to notice delays in their child's development. Supportive Environment: Regardless of whether a child is a late talker, creating a supportive and language-rich environment at home is crucial. Engaging in conversations, reading books, and providing opportunities for social interaction can all support language development. In summary, late talking can be a concern, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a long-term problem. It's crucial for parents to be aware of developmental milestones, trust their instincts, and seek professional evaluation if they have concerns about their child's language development. Early intervention can make a significant difference in addressing any underlying issues and helping the child develop strong communication skills. As a speech-language pathologist, I would recommend seeking guidance from a professional to determine the best course of action for your child if you have concerns about late talking. READ MORE
Why is my 3 year old only saying a few words?
As a licensed speech-language pathologist, I can provide some insights into why a 3-year-old may be saying only a few words. It's essential to remember that speech and language development can vary significantly among children, and some differences in development are entirely normal. However, if you have concerns about your child's language development, it's always a good idea to consult with a speech-language pathologist or a pediatrician for a comprehensive evaluation. Here are some potential reasons why a 3-year-old may have a limited vocabulary: Variability in Development: Children develop language skills at different rates. Some children may be late talkers but catch up over time. Hearing Impairment: Hearing problems can significantly impact language development. If a child has difficulty hearing sounds or words, it can hinder their ability to learn and imitate language. Language Exposure: Limited exposure to rich language experiences at home or in their environment can delay language development. Children benefit from being surrounded by conversation, books, and exposure to a variety of words and experiences. Speech or Language Disorders: Some children may have specific speech or language disorders, such as a phonological disorder or expressive language disorder, that require intervention. Bilingualism: In bilingual households, children may initially have a smaller vocabulary in each language as they navigate learning two languages simultaneously. However, they typically catch up and may even become proficient in both languages. Personality and Temperament: Some children are naturally more reserved or quiet by nature. Their temperament can affect how they communicate. Parental Interaction: The way parents interact with their child can impact language development. Encouraging communication, engaging in conversations, and responding to a child's attempts to communicate are essential. Developmental Delays or Disorders: In some cases, a limited vocabulary can be associated with developmental delays or disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disabilities. If you have concerns about your child's speech and language development, it's advisable to seek an evaluation from a speech-language pathologist. Early intervention is crucial in addressing any potential issues and helping your child develop their communication skills. A speech-language pathologist can assess your child's specific needs and provide guidance on strategies and interventions to support their language development. READ MORE
i have puberohonia (female voice, pitch break, etc)?
I can provide some general guidance on exercises that may be helpful for individuals dealing with puberphonia (also known as mutational falsetto). However, please note that it's essential to consult with a professional for a personalized assessment and guidance. Puberphonia is a condition where an individual continues to use a high-pitched voice even after puberty. Speech therapy, under the guidance of a speech-language pathologist, is typically recommended for its treatment. Here are some general exercises that may be beneficial as part of a comprehensive therapy plan: Vocal Range Exercises: Work on expanding your vocal range by practicing both low and high pitches. Start with low-pitched sounds and gradually move up to higher pitches. Pitch Slides: Practice sliding your voice from low to high and back down smoothly. Focus on maintaining control and avoiding breaks or cracks in your voice. Resonance Exercises: Pay attention to the resonance of your voice. Try to produce a deeper, more resonant sound by speaking from your chest. You can place your hand on your chest to feel the vibrations while speaking. Breath Support Exercises: Work on improving your breath control and support. Deep breathing exercises can be beneficial. Try inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. Pitch Matching: Listen to male voices that you find comfortable and try to match their pitch and tone as closely as possible. Practice speaking in this lower pitch throughout the day. Relaxation Techniques: Stress and tension can affect your voice. Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to reduce tension. Vocal Warm-Ups: Before speaking or practicing, warm up your vocal cords with gentle humming, lip trills, or sirens. Avoid sudden, forceful vocalizations that can strain your voice. It's crucial to remember that puberphonia can be complex, and progress may vary from person to person. Working with a licensed speech-language pathologist is essential for a tailored treatment plan. They can provide specific exercises, feedback, and monitor your progress to ensure you achieve the best results. Additionally, they can address any underlying psychological or emotional factors that may contribute to the condition. READ MORE