The inspiration behind Speech Tips with Spunky Monkey

Although I am retired from my career as a speech and language pathologist, I still wanted to find a meaningful way to contribute to the profession I loved. During my daily walks to Drake Sports Park with my neighbor, Lisa—who is also a retired speech and language pathologist—we began brainstorming ideas for a children's book. We decided to use zoo animals as metaphors for children with speech and language challenges.

Before long, Spunky Monkey came to life and embarked on a journey where he met five very interesting animals. Along the way, he shared helpful speech tips, kindness, and encouragement. The idea quickly evolved into a fun and educational book for children, parents, educators, speech and language pathologists, and social workers. And so began the journey of Spunky Monkey.