Did you know that more than 10% of school-aged children have speech and/or language difficulties? With May being speech and hearing month in Canada, it’s a fitting time to highlight the importance of early detection and intervention of speech and hearing challenges.
Speak well. Hear well. Live well.
Oral language is crucial! Being able to speak well and hear well impacts early learning, literacy, and making friends. Research shows that one’s oral language ability is one of the strongest predictors of success in school, and life. If you have concerns with your child’s hearing, speech, or language skills, speak with your child’s teacher to access an OCSB Speech-Language Pathologist.
Talk with your child!
One of the best ways you can help your child develop their oral language skills at any age is to talk with them about things they love. Ask open-ended questions that allow your child to build language through conversation. Tuning in to their interests will naturally foster greater engagement which is key to language learning.
Professional support for your child’s speech, language and hearing
Every school in our board is supported by an OCSB Speech-Language Pathologist. Their role includes assessment, consultative intervention, and collaboration with educators and other professionals to share ideas that will promote language and communication in the classroom.
Speech-Language Pathologists get involved when students have difficulties:
- Understanding words, concepts, and/or directions that they hear
- Using correct vocabulary, grammar, and/or full sentences when expressing their thoughts
- Telling and understanding stories and events
- Learning to read
- Interacting with others
- Communicating verbally
- Pronouncing sounds, speaking fluently and with a clear voice quality