What to expect during your child's first visit:
Please note that - consistent with COVID-19 recommendations from CASLPO - many therapy & assessment services are currently available primarily via tele-practice. Strict masking, hygiene and scheduling protocols are in place for in-office appointments.
Your child’s first visit to the SLP typically consist of two parts: parent interview and evaluation of your child. We usually use the beginning of your session to get to know more about your child’s history and your concerns. This also gives your child time to warm-up to a new person and a new environment. Before coming to the session, take a few minutes to consider:
The SLP evaluates your child two ways; through informal play and conversation (for young kids this may comprise the bulk of the first session) and structured testing (answering questions, pointing to pictures, following instructions, etc.) If you are present during the evaluation, you are welcome to support and reassure your child, but try not to re-word the SLP's questions or instructions. It's best to sit back and observe as much as possible. Often structured testing is completed with only the SLP and child present. For very young children, consider bringing a couple of small toys or favourite items that might help to break the ice or put your child at ease. Have these on hand but not available to the child right away. Evaluation is an on-going process and full assessment may take more than one session. By the end of the first initial visit however, you can usually expect a number of general suggestions about supporting your child's communication, and an opportunity to discuss next steps. Together, you and the SLP will create an intervention plan for your child. You can find more information on this topic by clicking here. |
What is the difference between speech and language?What is speech? When we refer to the term speech we are referring to three things:articulation/phonological skills, speech fluency and voice. We are looking at a child’s ability to:
What is Language? Language is a symbolic, rule governed system used to convey messages. We look at a child's ability to:
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