Language, Expectations, and Play (LEAP) is a private pediatric speech-language therapy practice dedicated to supporting children in the development of strong communication, speech, language, play, and cognitive skills.

At LEAP, we recognize that early childhood is a critical period of rapid brain development. During these formative years, the developing brain demonstrates a high degree of neuroplasticity, allowing neural pathways to be shaped and strengthened through meaningful experiences, responsive interaction, repetition, and targeted intervention. Research in child development and early intervention consistently supports identifying developmental differences as early as possible so children can receive appropriate support during periods of significant learning and growth.

Our approach extends beyond teaching isolated skills. Communication, play, social interaction, attention, problem-solving, and executive functioning develop together and influence a child’s ability to participate successfully at home, in the classroom, and within the community. LEAP uses developmentally appropriate, play-based, and evidence-informed intervention to build these foundational skills within engaging and meaningful contexts.

We are passionate about early identification and proactive intervention. When speech, language, play, or cognitive challenges are recognized early, intervention can help strengthen emerging skills, reduce barriers to learning and participation, and support a child’s continued developmental progress.

Our goal is to help children build the foundational skills needed to communicate effectively, engage meaningfully with others, learn with greater independence, and participate confidently in their everyday world—creating a stronger foundation for future academic, social, and functional success.

Meet the Founders

 
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Kathleen Kadera M.S., CCC-SLP

Kathleen is a licensed speech-language pathologist who is passionate about early identification and intervention for childhood disorders. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida and continued to pursue a second degree in Communication Disorders and Deaf Education at Utah State University. During her time at University of Florida, she played soccer for the Gators and volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and Goodwill Gators. Afterwards, she completed a Masters of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Nova Southeastern University.

Her professional experience includes working in an outpatient rehabilitation hospital, elementary school, high school and pediatric home healthcare company. Within her experience, she has treated children with Autism, executive function disorders, receptive and expressive language delays, childhood apraxia of speech, and articulation and phonological disorders.

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Christine Fulcomer M.S., CCC-SLP

Christine has been a licensed speech-language pathologist since 2017. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree from The Pennsylvania State University, and her Master’s degree from Gallaudet University.

During her time as a speech-language pathologist, she has worked in an outpatient clinic, a private clinic and home healthcare settings. Christine enjoys working with a wide variety of clients, but working with young children and their families has always been a passion of hers. 

In her spare time, Christine loves to spend time with her husband, play frisbee with her dog and cook for her friends and family.

What People Are Saying

 

Christine is resourceful, organized, detail-oriented, and extremely helpful. Over the years that we have worked with her our son went from minimal communication to now using sign language, pointing to pictures, and being able to communicate with his teachers at school and extended family. She is so knowledgeable about speech and development and was always able to come back to us with more information if we asked her about anything (sometimes not even speech related) she didn't fully have an answer to. Christine worked with our family as we set goals week to week and always made sure we were moving at a comfortable pace for us while also keeping us on track with our goals. She really made our son feel comfortable when we had our therapy visits as he did not do well socially around others. She cheered with us when we met new goals (however little) and supported us through any tougher times. She will be an advocate for your child and help them continue to progress. We feel lucky to work with her!

— Chau N.

 

We absolutely loved working with Katie! She gave us the knowledge and tools to better support our daughter and get more involved with her development. We are forever grateful for all that we gained by using LEAP.

-Jesse K.

As first time parents, we were overwhelmed with research and trying to discern what we needed to be aware of as we tracked our daughter’s developmental growth. Christine was so helpful in teaching us what to watch for and encouraged us as we observed our daughter. We are very thankful for LEAP and the vital role they play in providing parents with key information and giving them the confidence they need as they embark in this season of life.

— Jordan & Loretta W.

 

I am so happy to have found LEAP! Christine and Katie are excellent therapists. They really get to know your child and their areas of strength and concerns. I have found their parent education courses SO helpful. Even with material that I am somewhat familiar with, the courses are such a good refresher! 10/10 I would recommend this company and these therapists!

-Jasmine S.

 

“The children are our future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside.”

— Whitney Houston