Screening

Any preschooler may be referred for a Speech and Language Screening. A Speech-Language Pathologist will determine whether or not the child’s difficulties communicating are a cause for concern. At a screening appointment you should expect to answer questions about your child’s development, discuss your concerns about your child’s communication difficulties, and to allow your child to play and talk with you so that the Speech-Language Pathologist can observe the ways in which your child communicates. The outcome of a screening may be a recommendation for further, more detailed assessment and intervention or you may get suggestions to help your child communicate better without the need for further intervention.

Assessment

Children who have been recommended for more detailed assessment will be seen by a Speech-Language Pathologist. Formal testing, observation and caregiver interviews may be used to determine your child’s level of speech and language development, to choose the most appropriate intervention model if necessary and to determine the goals of intervention. The outcome of an assessment may be an intervention plan or discharge.

Intervention

Children who require speech and language intervention will receive a model of therapy that suits their individual needs. We provide home programming, consultation, formal instruction for parents, individual treatment and group treatment. Intervention models and goals are updated regularly by the Speech-Language Pathologist. Direct therapy may be provided by a Speech-Language Pathologist or a Communication Disorders Assistant. SSN offers therapy at convenient sites across the Niagara Region. Click here to learn more about our community based services.

Transition to School Planning

Some children who are receiving therapy services and are approaching entry to Junior Kindergarten will need assistance to ensure a smooth transition to school. Should your child need transition to school planning, our Speech-Language Pathologists can join you in a meeting with school personnel to discuss your child’s strengths and areas of need.