Tips for Parents

When Should I Make a Referral?

It is never too early to make a referral to our program.  Babies communicate from birth.  If you have ANY concerns about how your baby, toddler or preschooler is communicating or learning language, it is appropriate to make a referral.  There is a useful checklist here if you would like more information about general developmental milestones, relating to communication.  

A member or our Speech and Language Team is available to answer general questions about our program and communication in general every 1st Thursday of the month, in the LAMP Ontario Early Years Centre . 

Please keep in mind, that we do have a waiting list for services.  The earlier you make your referral, the better! 

 

What happens at our first Appointment?

 
Each child will begin his or her program with an asessment from our SLP.  An assessment is based on parent interviews, playing with your child and some formal testing, if possible.  We choose motivating toys, games and activities to interact with, and assess your child.

The following areas will be considered:

  • Speech production (how your child makes sounds)

  • Language comprehension (how much your child understands)

  • Language expression (how your child expresses himself/herself)

  • Social language (how your child interacts with people)

 

What type of Programs and Services do you offer?

An appropriate and specific program is determined by our SLP based on the needs of each child, and their family.  Each child will participate in a variety of programs.

Programs/services may include:

  • Individual (one on one) therapy
  • Group therapy (with 2 or more children and caregivers)
  • Parent coaching (supporting parents to work directly with their children)
  • Home Programming (with specific goals and strategies to practice at home)
  • Consultation (for caregivers, daycares, etc.) 

Parents play a KEY role in speech and language therapy with preschool children. Success of a child's program can depend on parental participation.  Our goal is to empower parents to take control of their child's health and be an advocate for their child.  Parents are always present and active participants in our programs.