04/25/2026
Does whole-group preschool push-in therapy ever feel like herding cats? 😅
Let’s be honest - it can be overwhelming! Even the most prepared and seasoned SLPs encounters bumps in the road.
The key to successful whole-group session is keeping their hands busy, their senses engaged, and using every adult in the room.
Here is a guide to using “There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Frog” during a whole-group IPK session!
Start with the Book & Props
You can easily print the images OR use tangible toys and objects. Never just “read” the book, make sure it’s interactive! I use a printed “Old Lady” head with a cutout mouth attached to a plastic container. As I read, I hand out the printed objects (the frog, dirt, seeds, rain, etc.) to the kids. We take turns making the old lady “eat” the items. Preschoolers tend stay so focused waiting for their turn. Your teacher and EAs can help maintain their attention.
Bring in the Music & Movement
To get those wiggles out and target early language skills, we transition into singing Five Little Speckled Frogs. It’s perfect for counting, repetitive phrasing, and getting them moving together. Music is ALWAYS a big hit and motivator for little students.
Make it Sensory
You can try bringing out a sensory bin with the old lady objects. This is a great addition to a session, especially for your students who have sensory needs.
Incorporate Communication Boards & AAC
Print multiple copies of core boards for the book so each student has ACCESS to communication. I also program the story’s icons into a voice output device. The kids love taking turns hitting the button. Always train your teacher and staff so they can incorporate core boards and communication devices when you are not actively in the room.
Push into Small Groups
Once small groups and centers start, push into the activities with your students and continue to model functional language and communication. Use the core boards and AAC device as much as possible for increased participation and language stimulation.
Whole-group therapy doesn’t have to be chaotic. When you give them a job to do, a song to sing, something to touch, and you empower every adult in the room to be a communication model — the magic happens!
What is your favorite book to use for spring push-in sessions? Drop it below! 👇🐸🌸
