The Earlier, The Better
Written by admin, May 1, 2017
May 1, 2017 – ‘Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late’ to Identify Problems with Child’s Speech Skills
When it comes to your child’s speech, hearing and language skills, time is of the essence.
The early identification of delays or problems with a child’s communication abilities is essential to getting the help that he or she will require for future success in school and life. “Simply put, don’t wait until it’s too late,” says Leisa Baker, a Public Health Nurse with Peterborough Public Health (PPH).
May is Speech and Hearing Month, and PPH is promoting the importance of a child’s speech, hearing and language skills. Approximately one in 10 Ontario preschool children has a communication delay, which if not identified early on, can pose problems in the future.
“A child needs well-developed communication skills to make friends, learn new things and to start reading and writing,” Baker notes. “That makes it important for parents to not only look for potential problems or delays, but to also nurture and support good communication skills in children.”
The local Preschool Speech and Language Program is a valuable service for local families in Peterborough County and City. It includes a network of community agencies – including PPH – that can provide speech and language services for children six years of age and younger. The Speech and Language Program’s KidTalk website (www.kidtalk.on.ca) is a good starting point for families who want to learn about local resources and supports available in their community.
“The KidTalk portal is great for learning more about enhancing your child’s speech skills, getting tips for communicating with your child, and the importance of hearing and vision in the development of language,” Baker notes.
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For further information, please contact:
Leisa Baker, Public Health Nurse
705-743-1000, ext. 312