Book clubs are a fun way for people to connect with other readers. Ashley Tibbs, a speech and language pathologist at Turning Pages SLP thought this would be a great concept to offer to children as well.
“Supporting literacy at home is often a daunting task, especially when kids are wiggly, distracted and resistant,” Tibbs said. “We are passionate about simplifying and empowering families within a small group environment that offers specific feedback relevant to their child’s communication journey.”
Each week, parents and children come to book club to read, play and share while boosting language skills. Tibbs plans each session to combine movement-based, sensory rich play with joyful storytelling activities.
“We start each week exploring a variety of sensory toys, while talking about evidence-based modeling tips for parents to use at home. We also discuss emotional vocabulary with the kids using hands-on visuals. As we transition into reading a handful of themed stories, we incorporate emotional vocabulary into the discussion of the characters and events that take place. While reading, kids are engaging in hands-on sensory bins that relate to the stories, sometimes using the toys to act out our favorite parts. We follow up the read-aloud by listening to a song and doing a group craft activity. Everything that we plan is flexible, and kids determine the flow of the class.”
Turning Pages SLP book clubs are currently offered at Recess Play Cafe in Ann Arbor, as well as The Kids Therapy Co in Whitmore Lake. An upcoming series will also be offered soon at Ronnie’s Family Salon.
RELATED: Lush Little Babies Offers Solutions for Sleep-Deprived Families
Tibbs said that these classes can give parents a low-cost way to get helpful information from a pediatric speech pathologist when traditional speech therapy services may be out of reach.
“The kids book clubs are available to anyone regardless of whether or not they have a communication delay. We thoughtfully design the activities and environment to support neurodivergent learners also, allowing them an opportunity to practice social skills and integrate books into their play.”
Get to Know Ashley Tibbs, M.S., CCC-SLP
Tell us about yourself!
I am married to my high school sweetheart, Shelley. We have two children, Dev (age 4) and Dani (age 1). As a family, we love to explore national parks and watch Disney movies.
Where did you grow up?
I was born and raised in San Diego, California. I lived there all my life until August 2025, when we moved to Ann Arbor.
Education? Career background?
I have my Masters in Speech Language Pathology from California State University San Marcos. In San Diego, I worked for 7 years at a public school supporting children in their communication goals from preschool through 8th grade.
Dream vacation?
Our family loves to visit Kauai, Yosemite, Lake Tahoe and Banff. Being lucky enough to continue exploring those special places would be a dream.
If you could learn one new skill/talent/ ability to master, what would it be?
I would love to learn how to paint with watercolors.
Which do you prefer: Podcast, books or movies?
Books and movies (it’s a tie for me).
Any hobbies?
Hiking, camping, and wandering the aisles of independent bookstores.
You can be counted on to bring _____ to the potluck!
Guacamole, every time!
Favorite local restaurant?
I’m new to the area, but so far I’d have to say The Dixboro Project!
Favorite hidden or not so hidden gem in the metro Ann Arbor area?
The scones at The Songbird Cafe are to die for!
Any quotes or mottos that inspire you?
From Wicked, The Musical: “I’m through accepting limits because someone says they’re so. I’d sooner buy defying gravity.”
What has surprised you about being a business owner?
I have been pleasantly surprised by how easy it has been to make connections and friendships with other small businesses in the Ann Arbor community. I am constantly inspired and my bucket has been so full getting to partner with other powerful women.
Advice for mompreneurs who are thinking of starting their own business?
Imposter syndrome is natural. Everyone feels it. If you have a vision, determine the first baby steps and go for it. It does not have to be perfect, it just has to start.
