Who can refer for speech/ language services through Preschool Communication Services?
You don't need a doctor's referral to access our services. Parents are encouraged to call us directly to book an initial assessment. Our services are provided to you at no additional cost.
Click here to make a referral.
Once I contact PCS, how long will I have to wait before an appointment is booked for my child?
The wait for an initial assessment is approximately 8 to 12 weeks.
How long is the initial assessment?
An initial assessment usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.
What will happen during the initial assessment?
A speech-language pathologist (S-LP) will meet with you and your child. As your child becomes familiar with his/ her surroundings (with the help of fun toys!), the S-LP will ask you about your concerns, as you know your child best. The S-LP will interact with your child using toys, books, and pictures to determine his/ her overall communication development. Results from the assessment will be shared with you, and a therapy plan will be made depending on your child's communication needs.
My child is still quite young, should I wait to see how he/ she does once school starts, and then look at having his/ her communication skills assessed if necessary?
While it's true that some children with communication difficulties will catch up to their peers, many children will not without speech and language therapy. Research tells us that children with speech and/ or language difficulties are at an increased risk of reading struggles. PCS will work with you to improve your child's communication abilities which will include learning skills needed to help him/ her with later reading and writing. Bringing your child in sooner will give him/ her a chance to learn important skills prior to entering school.
Click here to make a referral.
My toddler is almost 18 months old, and not yet using words. Should I give my child a little more time to start using words, before I bring him/ her in for a speech/ language assessment?
At a year and a half, most children are using 20 words consistently. Favourite words might include: mama/ dada, bye-bye, no, me, up, and cookie. if your child is not yet using many words, this is a good time to contact PCS to set up an appointment to see a speech-language pathologist. Research tells us that the most intensive period of speech and language development occurs during the first three years of life. A speech-language pathologist can offer suggestions to encourage communication development right from the time your child is born. PCS is ready to welcome you and your toddler to help give him/ her the best start possible!
Click here to make a referral.
My child seems to be stuttering. What should I do?
This can be a fairly typical phase for children between 2 and 5 years of age, which can occur for up to 6 months. However, if you are concerned, it's best to contact PCS to book an initial assessment visit. A speech-language pathologist can assess your child and provide strategies most relevant for your child and family. In the meantime, you should avoid telling your child to slow down or think about what he/ she wants to say. Instead, you should give your child your attention and the time he/ she needs to complete a sentence. If you can slow down your own speech and try to remain calm, this will further assist your child. Additional information will be provided to you at your assessment visit depending on your child's needs.
Click here to make a referral.
Will learning two languages cause speech or language problems?
No, learning two languages will not cause speech or language problems. Many children around the world speak more than one language and do not display speech or language difficulties. However, if you are concerned that your child is experiencing a delay in the development of his/ her first language, please contact PCS to book an initial assessment visit.
Click here to make a referral.