There continues to be a high demand for speech-language pathology (SLP) services. We had a record number of children on our caseload/waitlist at 450. At the same time, we have had staffing challenges with difficulty recruiting staff to fill vacancies. We welcome Ben, SLP who recently joined us to provide along with Jenny M, virtual SLP services. The current SLP team consists of Joan, Jenny M, Ben as Speech-Language Pathologists and Stacey, as a SLP assistant. Megan, SLP is currently on maternity leave. Virtual SLP services can either be given in the comfort of a family’s home or at the CDC with the support of CDC staff. We serve a large geographical region surrounding Prince George including Mackenzie, Valemount, McBride, Fort Ware and Tsay Keh. We recently gave a popular virtual workshop called ‘Early Words’ with good attendance and participation by families. We generally offer this workshop 1 to 2 times her year. Follow the CDC on Facebook to be informed of upcoming workshops.
Language Resources: There are many great free websites and resources for parents with ideas and strategies to increase and expand the language skills of children. A favourite site for SLPs is produced by The Hanen Centre in Toronto. Check out their monthly tips on research-based language and literacy strategies as well as resources for autistic children. Hanen Language and Literacy Tips.
During the summer, water play is a fun activity that motivates children to communicate and play. See this handout for how to include language during water play: Water Play with Preschoolers – The Hanen Way
