Inspiring Conversations with Michelle Mintz
Inspiring Conversations with Michelle Mintz Last month I got Interviewed by Voyage LA. Read the original interview in Voyage LA HERE. Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Mintz, M.S., CCC-SLP. Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started? I’m Michelle Mintz, M.S., CCC-SLP, a Communication & Cognition Specialist with 30 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, specializing in early childhood development and adult cognitive health. I founded MEET MICHELLE MINTZ to help families nurture communication, connection, and brain development from infancy through adulthood. My passion for helping people connect started long before my career—ever since I was a child, I found myself noticing the way people spoke: the rasp of a voice, a unique twang, or a particular rhythm. I didn’t know then that it would become my life’s work, but looking back, it makes perfect sense. I’ve worked with people of all ages, from toddlers saying their very first words to seniors recalling cherished memories. Early in my career, I worked out of my home without a waiting room, so parents, grandparents, and nannies were always present during sessions. That gave me the chance to teach them in the moment—explaining what I was doing, why it mattered, and how to carry it forward at home. The progress we saw was incredible, and I quickly realized these strategies weren’t just for children with delays but for all children from birth to five. In 2020, I launched Baby Blooming Moments—now MEET MICHELLE MINTZ—to share these strategies more widely. My programs, including Baby Blooming Moments and Parenting 911, weave enriching activities into daily routines, strengthen brain connections, reduce behavioral challenges, and deepen family bonds. These small, intentional changes make a huge impact—especially for babies and toddlers born during the COVID-19 lockdown, who research shows are at risk of developmental delays. Inspiring conversations with Michelle Mintz continues here Beyond my work with young children and families, I’ve devoted much of my career to adult cognitive health. I’ve worked at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and UCLA Medical Center to help adults improve memory, attention, and overall brain health through engaging, research-based strategies. Over the years, I’ve also worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, private homes, schools, and for neurologists helping their patients who have experienced brain injuries. I earned my Master’s degree from Boston University and hold national certification through ASHA. I’m also the author of All Done Binky! and a frequent speaker at national conferences, where I train preschools, educate nannies, and coach families both in person and virtually. Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome? Many obstacles trying for about 25 years to provide my program to all caregiver of children birth to five. I have had many different company names, lots of articles, podcasts and interviews.. It is challenging to have such a unique business when caregivers don’t realize they really need this type of extra support – no one is searching for me My background is a Speech-Language Pathologist but my business, MEET MICHELLE MINTZ, is for typically developing children birth – five (the critical years for brain development) as well as those with cognitive challenges Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others? At MEET MICHELLE MINTZ, I help people—from newborns to seniors—connect more deeply through better communication and brain development. I don’t just work with the individual; I equip the people around them with strategies that turn everyday moments into opportunities for learning and connection. MEET MICHELLE MINTZ strengthens communication, connection, and cognitive development from infancy through later years. As a Communication & Cognition Specialist with 30 years of experience as a Speech-Language Pathologist, I work with families, caregivers, educators, and individuals to enhance language skills, enrich daily interactions, and keep the brain active and engaged. What makes my programs unique is how practical and accessible they are. All sessions can be done virtually or in person, allowing me to work with clients anywhere. I provide simple, yet impactful strategies that fit seamlessly into daily activities—small tweaks in how you talk, play, read, and interact that create profound, lasting results. This approach doesn’t require extra hours in the day—it’s about using the moments you already have more meaningfully. This work is especially critical now for babies and toddlers born during the COVID-19 lockdown, when reduced social interaction and exposure have led to developmental delays. Studies show many of these children are behind in language, social, and emotional skills. They are getting kicked out of preschool and parents and educators do not know where to go for help. My strategies help close that gap, giving parents, caregivers, and educators the tools to spark meaningful growth in everyday moments. I’m proud that MEET MICHELLE MINTZ is known for fostering connection—helping people feel seen, heard, and understood. My services include early childhood enrichment, caregiver training, adult cognitive health coaching, and professional development workshops—each designed to be engaging, practical, and immediately applicable. At the heart of my work is one belief: communication is the thread that holds us together, and nurturing it at every stage changes everything. Some say “It’s never too late”, I say “It’s never too early.” As babies bloom, families blossom Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc? I enjoy reading, watching or listening to crime, detective, mystery type shows I love using the app Keep Notes as I take notes and coach about taking notes for everything to help keep organized I will use Lumosity and Focus for brain games Contact Info: Website: https://meetmmintz.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meetmmintz/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meetmmintz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetmmintz/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@meetmmintz Other: https://amzn.to/48gMiQ8 Thank you for reading inspiring conversations with Michelle Mintz
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The Importance of the Critical First 5 Years
Michelle Mintz was recently featured on the Podcast 6 Figure Rebel with this enlightening episode with host Brittany Chetyrbok on the importance of the critical first 5 years, and how busy parents can balance career success while still nurturing their child’s crucial development. Listen here Balancing Success and Family: Expert Advice from Michelle Mintz on Nurturing Child Development for High-Level Entrepreneurs In today’s demanding world, balancing the needs of a growing business with the needs of a growing family can feel like an impossible task. For high-level entrepreneurs and executives, the stakes are even higher — success at work often hinges on peace of mind at home. That’s the exact topic explored in a recent episode of Michelle’s Podcast, where we welcomed early childhood development specialist Michelle Mintz, founder of of Baby Blooming Moments. Whether you’re a corporate leader juggling meetings or a fast-moving entrepreneur, Michelle’s wisdom will help you ensure your child’s early years bloom with connection, growth, and confidence. Listen to the full episode here! The Power of Early Engagement and The Importance of the Critical First 5 Years Michelle highlights a staggering fact: 90% of a child’s brain development happens before age five. “The experiences a child has in those early years — the simple, everyday routines — lay a foundation for lifelong learning, social skills, and emotional health,” she explains. For busy parents, the question becomes: How do you ensure quality care, even if you aren’t there every moment? The answer isn’t just about who looks after your child, but how they do it. Michelle specializes in coaching nannies, daycare staff, and even grandparents, helping them turn ordinary tasks into powerful opportunities for engagement. Key Early Engagement Strategies: – Make daily routines educational: Feeding, changing, and bathing become moments for eye contact, singing, counting, and conversation. – Limit passive screen time: Instead, fill the day with interactive play, books, and meaningful dialogue. – Be present in the moment: True engagement means putting down distractions and tuning in to the child’s cues, smiles, and reactions. Why Consistency Matters for Child Development One of Michelle’s core philosophies is the value of routine and consistency. Children thrive when parents and caregivers are “on the same page.” This means using similar communication, routines, and strategies so transitions between caregivers are smoother and kids feel secure. “Kids learn by repetition,” says Michelle. “If a nanny or parent knows how to respond to a tantrum or how to calm a child using my strategies, the child quickly understands what to expect — and stress levels drop for everyone.” Consistency is key for a successful outcome when considering the Importance of the Critical First 5 Years. — Real-Time Coaching for Real Life Michelle’s approach isn’t just theoretical — it’s incredibly practical. Through her in-person work in Santa Monica and her popular virtual coaching (which skyrocketed in demand after 2020), Michelle meets families, nannies, and daycare staff where they are. She observes and provides real-time feedback, helping caregivers: – Slow down and wait for the child’s cues before responding – Recognize moments to foster a smile, eye contact, or a giggle – Transform stressful moments into bonding opportunities She also offers certificates for nannies and childcare professionals, equipping them with proven techniques in early brain development. This gives parents peace of mind and adds a valuable credential for caregivers. Especially considering the Importance of the Critical First 5 Years. — Supporting Parents, Empowering Children Every parent wants to come home after a long workday, spend quality time with their child, and know their child has thrived in their absence. Michelle offers strategies that fit into any schedule — from singing a silly song at bath time, to making bedtime routines extra special, to quick connections even when time is short. For hard-working dads who may not be sure how to connect with little ones, or moms who feel stretched thin, Michelle offers personalized, judgment-free support and actionable tips. She reminds us, “When everyone at home feels secure and connected, parents can focus and perform better at work — and vice versa. Healthy families are the root of healthy businesses.” — Ways to Work With Michelle Mintz Michelle’s expertise goes far beyond traditional parenting advice. Here’s how you can tap into her support: – Virtual or In-Person Coaching: Tailored to your family’s routines, with live feedback for parents, nannies, or daycare staff. – Toy Organizer Service: Innovative support to help organize play spaces for maximum creativity and learning. – Workshops and Training: For individual families or groups, including nanny and daycare staff certification. – Free 30-Minute Consultations: A no-risk way to discover the best fit for your family’s needs. Get started at meetmmintz.com , find out more at babybloomingmoments.com or connect with Michelle on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Or email: michelle@meetmmintz.com Why This Matters More Than Ever In the rush of modern life, it’s easy to overlook the subtle daily experiences that shape our children’s future. “You don’t have to be perfect,” Michelle says, “but you do need to be present. The little things you do every day matter — for your child’s brain, heart, and their lifelong sense of security.” By investing in these early years and equipping caregivers with the right tools and knowledge, entrepreneurs and corporate leaders can truly have it all: thriving families and thriving businesses. And the early stage is the best time to invest when considering The Importance of the Critical First 5 Years. — Ready to nurture both your family and your legacy of success? Remember: As babies bloom, families blossom — and when families blossom, your business can reach new heights. Don’t miss this empowering episode! Listen to Michelle’s Podcast Episode Now
Read More3-Month-Old Baby Sparks Discussion About Echolalia—Experts Weigh In
Baby Echolalia? Can a 3-Month-Old Exhibit Echolalia? Experts Explain This viral TikTok video showing a 3-month-old baby appearing to speak has sparked conversations about echolalia—the repetition of words or phrases. But is this truly echolalia, or is it something else? Speech-language experts weigh in. Understanding Early Vocalizations Babies begin learning language by mimicking sounds they hear. Parents often encourage this by saying things like, “Can you say Mama?” or, as seen in the TikTok clip, prompting the baby with, “I am 3 months old.” While this may seem like echolalia—a term used for repeated speech—experts clarify that babies under 12 months are simply exploring sounds rather than displaying true echolalia. “Echolalia serves broader social functions than simple vocal play,” explains Stephanie Boron, MS, CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist and professor at Northwestern University. “Before their first birthday, babies experiment with sounds and imitate speech without understanding meaning. This is different from echolalia, which emerges later.” What Is Echolalia? Echolalia involves repeating spoken words or phrases, either immediately after hearing them (immediate echolalia) or later (delayed echolalia). “Immediate echolalia happens right after the child hears the words, while delayed echolalia can occur minutes, hours, or even days later,” says Audra Nelson, MS, CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist at Children’s Nebraska. Children use echolalia for various reasons, such as processing language, practicing speech, or participating in conversation before they can form original responses. Immediate vs. Delayed Echolalia Immediate echolalia is common in typical language development, while delayed echolalia is often seen in gestalt language processors—children who learn language in chunks rather than single words. “Gestalt language development is natural and occurs in both neurotypical and neurodivergent children,” Nelson notes. “Some children, particularly those on the autism spectrum, may rely more on this style of learning.” When Does Echolalia Typically Appear? Echolalia usually emerges between 12 and 30 months of age. Before that, babies engage in vocal play rather than true echolalia. “Some children progress through language stages so smoothly that early echolalia sounds like babbling,” Boron says. “Not all children use echolalia, but it’s a normal part of development for many.” Should Parents Be Concerned? Both gestalt and analytic (word-by-word) language development are valid. However, some children may benefit from speech therapy if their progress differs from typical milestones. “Gestalt language processing isn’t a disorder,” Boron emphasizes. “But understanding how a child learns language helps us support them effectively.” In the past, some therapists discouraged echolalia, but perspectives are shifting. Many now recognize it as a meaningful step in language acquisition. Is Echolalia Linked to Autism? While echolalia is common in autistic individuals (appearing in 75-80% of verbal autistic children), it can also occur in neurotypical children. If echolalia is frequent and accompanied by other developmental differences, an evaluation may be helpful. How Should Parents Respond to Echolalia? Experts recommend acknowledging and validating a child’s communication attempts. Here are some tips: Respond to their speech—even if it’s repetitive, treat it as meaningful communication. Avoid correcting or suppressing echolalia—instead, engage with it. Focus on play-based interaction—narrate activities rather than asking direct questions. Consider speech therapy—if needed, seek a therapist experienced in gestalt language processing. “Communication is like a tennis match,” Boron says. “When a child speaks, respond in a way that keeps the exchange going—whether through words, gestures, or smiles.” By understanding echolalia and its role in language development, parents can better support their child’s communication journey. Resource: https://www.parents.com/what-is-echolalia-and-when-you-should-be-concerned-8700387 More on Baby Echolalia below: Do Babies Under 12 Months Display Echolalia? While babies under a year old may imitate sounds, experts agree that this is not true echolalia. Instead, it falls under vocal play or pre-linguistic babbling—a foundational step in speech development. Key Differences Between Early Imitation and Echolalia Purpose of Repetition Echolalia (seen after 12 months) serves communicative or cognitive functions, such as practicing speech, participating in conversation, or processing language. Infant imitation (before 12 months) is exploratory—babies experiment with sounds without attaching meaning. Cognitive Development Echolalia requires some level of language comprehension, which develops after the first year. Infants mimic sounds reflexively, not with intent to communicate. Types of Sounds Produced 0-6 months: Cooing, vowel-like sounds (“ah,” “oh”). 6-12 months: Babbling with consonants (“ba-ba,” “ma-ma”), often in response to caregiver speech. Echolalia in Children Under 12 Months: Understanding Echolalia Echolalia is a term that often comes up when discussing early language development, but is it accurate to describe vocalizations in infants under 12 months? While true echolalia typically emerges after the first year, many parents wonder if their baby’s repetitive sounds could be early signs of baby echolalia. Let’s explore how baby echolalia differs from normal infant vocalizations and when parents might see actual echolalia develop. Is It Echolalia or Just Normal Imitation? When we talk about baby echolalia, we need to distinguish between true echolalia and the natural sound repetition seen in infants. While baby echolalia involves meaningful repetition of speech, what we see before 12 months is better described as vocal exploration rather than true baby echolalia. Key Differences Between Early Imitation and Echolalia Purpose of Repetition Baby echolalia (after 12 months) involves repeating words with communicative intent Infant vocalizations are exploratory sound play without meaning Cognitive Development Baby echolalia requires some language comprehension Infants mimic sounds reflexively Sound Development 0-6 months: Cooing sounds that might resemble early baby echolalia but aren’t 6-12 months: Babbling that parents sometimes mistake for baby echolalia When Does Actual Echolalia Begin? True baby echolalia typically emerges after 12 months, when toddlers start: Using immediate baby echolalia (repeating words right after hearing them) Demonstrating delayed baby echolalia (repeating phrases hours or days later) Showing communicative intent through their baby echolalia Supporting Healthy Vocal Development While you won’t see true echolalia before 12 months, parents can: Respond to all vocalizations as if they’re meaningful Model clear speech patterns that may later influence baby echolalia Create a language-rich environment that supports eventual baby echolalia development Remember, what looks like echolalia in young infants is usually just normal sound exploration. True echolalia comes later as part of typical language development. Are you worried about your childs speech development or signs…
Read MoreOverusing Pacifiers – The Hidden Risks – and how to pull the plug
Discover the dangers of overusing pacifiers and how it affects child development in this informative post by Michelle Mintz. Overusing pacifiers can lead to detrimental effects on your baby’s oral development. The hidden risks of relying too heavily on pacifiers include dental issues, communication issues and speech delays. Learn effective strategies to help your child break the pacifier habit and promote healthy development. Picture this: you’re at the park, and you see a child toddling around with a pacifier hanging from their lips like a tiny fashion accessory. Sure, it’s cute. But have you ever stopped to wonder, “What’s that binky doing to their speech development?” Let’s be real — pacifiers can be lifesavers in those early, sleepless months. They soothe, they calm, and sometimes they’re the only thing standing between you and a total meltdown (yours or your baby’s!). But when your child is past the point of needing constant comfort, it might be time to start thinking twice about plugging up their mouth with a “passy.” Are you overusing pacifiers? Why? Because that little piece of silicone can lead to some big communication problems. Let’s dive into what happens when the pacifier overstays its welcome. Overusing pacifiers – The Silent Speech Saboteur Imagine trying to talk with a mouthful of marbles. Not so easy, right? When children try to talk around a pacifier, they start developing bad habits with their lips, tongue, and overall mouth placement. These habits can become ingrained, making it difficult for them to produce sounds correctly when the pacifier is finally gone. The result? Speech articulation difficulties. Do you ever find yourself constantly interpreting for your child because others can’t understand what they’re saying? It might not just be a cute toddler phase—it could be a sign that the pacifier is overstaying its welcome! But how do you know that you are overusing pacifiers? The Talk Test: Is It Time to Pull the Plug? Take a look at your little one right now. Are they using a pacifier? Do they really need it in this moment, or is it just there out of habit? Here’s a quick test: If your child is trying to talk with the pacifier in their mouth, it’s time to pull that plug! Visualize This: Your child, without a pacifier, babbling away, words clear as a bell. Their lips and tongue moving freely, forming sounds effortlessly. This is the goal! Now, picture them with a pacifier—mumbling, unclear, possibly frustrated. Which future would you prefer for your little communicator? “All Done Binky” — Your Pacifier Goodbye Guide! To help you and your little one say “bye-bye” to the binky at the right time, I wrote a special book called “All Done Binky!”. It’s designed for very young children, especially those under and around 1 year of age—a critical time for beginning speech development. This book helps ease the transition away from pacifiers in a gentle, engaging way, setting up your child for clearer speech and healthier communication habits. Read more about my book and watch a YouTube video here! You can find “All Done Binky!” on Amazon here. Reading “All Done Binky” together can be a fun and educational activity, helping your child understand that it’s okay to let go of their pacifier. The sooner they can start practicing talking without it, the better their speech development will be! Don’t Let a Pacifier Muffle Your Child’s Voice If your kid doesn’t need it, let’s practice some healthy detachment! Don’t let a pacifier be your child’s permanent “mute button.” Instead, encourage them to engage, speak clearly, and communicate effectively. Every moment they spend without a pacifier is a step towards clearer speech and better language skills. Next time you reach for that passy, ask yourself: Is it really necessary right now, or am I just trying to plug them up for a moment of peace? Remember, fostering good communication habits starts early, and a pacifier-free mouth is a great place to begin. So, go ahead, be bold. Pull that plug, grab a copy of “All Done Binky!”, and let your child’s voice be heard loud and clear! Pull That Plug: The Hidden Risks of Overusing Pacifiers! Discover the potential dangers associated with the overuse of pacifiers. Understand how excessive pacifier use can impact your child’s oral development and overall health. Take steps to ensure your little one’s well-being by limiting pacifier time and promoting healthy alternatives. Encourage weaning off pacifiers by gradually reducing usage during specific times of the day. Introduce positive reinforcement techniques, such as praising the child when they go without their pacifier. Implement activities that keep the child’s hands and mouth busy, like playing with toys or engaging in interactive games. Offer comfort and support during the transition period to help children feel secure without their pacifier. Consulting with a pediatrician can provide additional personalized strategies for successfully ending the overuse of pacifiers.
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The Cost of Capturing the Moment: Are We Trading Connection for the Perfect Picture?
The Cost of Capturing the Moment: Are We Trading Connection for the Perfect Picture? Have you ever found yourself reaching for your phone to capture your child’s adorable giggle, only to realize later that you missed the magic of that moment? In our quest to document every precious second, are we unintentionally trading connection for the perfect picture? Imagine this: your child is laughing, eyes sparkling with joy, reaching out to you. But instead of meeting that moment with your full presence, your focus is on framing the shot and telling them to smile rather than engaging with your child? When the focus shifts from the joy of the experience to getting the perfect picture, something essential is lost. The warmth of a shared smile, the comfort of a reassuring hug, the connection that comes from truly engaging with our kids—these moments are irreplaceable, and no amount of photos or videos can substitute for the emotional bond that develops in those instances. Instead of fostering a deeper connection, constantly snapping photos can create a barrier between parents and children. Consider this: how often does your child perform for the camera instead of simply being themselves? Are they smiling for the picture, or are they genuinely feeling joy? And what about you—are you truly connecting with your child, or are you distracted by the need to document? The parent, focused on the perfect pose, might miss the subtle cues and emotions that make the moment truly meaningful. This disconnect can lead to missed opportunities for emotional growth, bonding, and development. What do our children need more—a gallery full of photos, or parents who are fully engaged and responsive in the moment? They need our eyes, our smiles, our attention—not the lens of a camera. The memories we make when we are fully engaged with our children are the ones that will last a lifetime, not the ones captured and posted for others to see. So, the next time you’re about to hit the record button, ask yourself: What’s more important—the picture, or the person right in front of you?
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