Affiliations & Certifications
Comprehensive Evaluations and Therapy
As a certified Wilson Reading and Dyslexia practitioner, Lyon customizes the Wilson Reading Program for your child. Children move at their own pace and do not advance to the next level until the necessary skills have been mastered. This systematic, multisensory, evidenced-based program starts with phonemic awareness and lesson by lesson, builds critical knowledge for reading, spelling, writing and language skills.
The Wilson Reading Program comprehensively teaches these areas of development, creating a solid foundation in language and literacy, which is required for all areas of academic success.
Fast ForWord
This is an evidence-based computer program for home learning, provides cognitive and literacy cross-training targeting root causes of language and reading difficulty. Exercises focus on specific reading, spelling and language tasks while simultaneously improving memory, attention, processing speed and sequencing. Programs are created specifically for each child with ongoing support for participants and parents for optimal progress.
Step Up for Students
The cost of your child’s speech, language and literacy services may be covered by The Family Empowerment Scholarship for Children with Unique Abilities (formerly Gardiner Scholarship). Estero Speech and Language Services is an approved Step Up for Students Scholarship Provider.
Read more to determine if your child is eligible for coverage.
www.stepupforstudents.org/for-parents/special-needs/how-the-scholarship-works/
As a graduate of New York University (NYU) with a master of arts in speech-language pathology and minor in audiology, Kristi-Leigh was awarded The Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). ASHA is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for its 234,000 members. The CCC represents the achievement of a rigorous, validated, widely recognized set of standards for professionals specializing in speech-language pathology and audiology. Continual professional learning, specialized coursework completion, and upholding the code of ethics is required for maintaining membership.
As a member of the Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists FLASHA provides continuing education, connection to colleagues in Florida, and advocacy for the role of speech-language pathologists within the education and medical fields. Ongoing coursework, evaluations and education is completed in specialized areas. Knowledge and involvement in state and national policies, procedures and practices are continuous.
Kristi-Leigh is a team captain for the SW Florida annual walk in Estero, a donor, and a facilitator connecting families, professionals and community members to understand childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). The “Every Child Deserves a Voice” motto for Childhood Apraxia of Speech Association of North America, enables support and education to children, families and speech-language pathologists treating this motor speech disorder. Kristi-Leigh is an annual attendee for the Apraxia of Kids National Conference. Specialized evaluation, diagnosis, and therapy is provided for CAS using a dynamic motor speech approach.
Estero Speech and Language Services is an active member of the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce, sponsoring community speakers and luncheons, welcoming new members at ribbon cuttings and varied events, and participating in Estero Fest and Celebrate Estero. Kristi-Leigh is also a graduate of the 2024 Leadership Estero class which enhanced her knowledge of the area’s unique history, key issues impacting the area, diverse businesses and services, as well as the future growth planned. Involvement in the community is a cornerstone of the practice.
IDA (International Dyslexia Association) seeks to create a future for all individuals who struggle with dyslexia and other related reading differences so that they may have richer, more robust lives and access to the tools and resources they need.
The IDA provides accreditation and education to practitioners. As a specialist in language and literacy; dyslexia testing, diagnosis and intervention is provided with continual family support. As a certified Wilson Reading and Dyslexia Practitioner, comprehensive structured literacy instruction is provided.
Kristi-Leigh Lyon graduated from the 2024 Leadership Estero program, a nine month experience coordinated by the Greater Estero Chamber of Commerce offering knowledge and connections across businesses and professions within the community.
The classes focused on behind-the-scenes tours of local industries, discussions with community partners and leaders, and topic-based panels in education, healthcare, environment, social services, history, government, safety, art and tourism. Through this program, lasting relationships, stronger leadership skills and collaboration to serve the Greater Estero region has resulted. As an alumni member, Lyon volunteers time and resources for other class participants to learn and network together.
Estero Speech and Language Services was thrilled to participate in Estero Fest 2024, a fun and exciting family-friendly free event in Estero. As a volunteer at The Kids Zone, Kristi-Leigh, Estero Leader Classmates and FGCU students provided an engaging and exciting experience for children of all ages.