Solutions for Your Child’s Speech or Language Development Challenges

Do you have concerns about your child’s speech or language development? Are there difficulties with speaking, listening, reading or writing? Click on ‘What Is Normal Development?’ If you are wondering about a challenge, we are here to help. Speech-Language Pathologists have specific training in communication skills encompassing a broad scope of practice. Click here to learn about my services.  Prior to meeting with a Speech-Language professional,  you can take action immediately, by implementing strategies at home. Click here and read the page on Solutions. You may wish to explore public services as well.

Communication disorders impact on a child’s development

Communication disorders impact on the emotional, social, educational, vocational, and communicative growth of an individual. The first two to three years of life are critical for neurodevelopment. At school age, language is already a core subject. Literacy (reading, spelling and writing), taught upon school entry, is composed of numerous language elements. Challenges in listening and speaking in the preschool years can impact on reading and writing by school age. Evidence-based research clearly supports early intervention. Parents are now encouraged to seek assistance as soon as there is a concern. It is no longer advisable to wait and see.

It is estimated that approximately ten percent of Canadians have a speech, language or hearing problem. There are numerous causes for these difficulties though the cause is not always clear. One need not wait for a diagnosis prior to initiating intervention.

Early intervention is key

Communication is taken for granted. It begins at birth, evolving from watching, listening, facial expression, body language, gesturing, sounds, babbling, to formulation of words, phrases, sentences, and finally conversation. If there are concerns, waiting may also compound underlying emotions. A child may be confused, scared, anxious, sad, ashamed, embarrassed, frustrated, angry, aggressive, stressed, alone, teased-bullied, passive, withdrawn, or marginalized. People with communication challenges may experience a range of these emotions. Intervening early can make a difference, positively affecting confidence, friendships, pride, a sense of belonging, and effective-independent communication, resulting in improved quality of life.

How I can help

A Speech-Language Pathology graduate of the University of Toronto (1979), and a registered member of my College, I established my private practice in 1990.  My work experiences have included different populations of children and youth. Professionally, my experience has included those with various developmental challenges. With respect to communication disorders, my clinical areas of focus include challenges in numerous disorders. I am also trained in the highly regarded Orton-Gillingham approach to teaching literacy, see “My Services” page. A seasoned clinician, I am passionate about my profession and dedicated to my clients.

I offer individual therapy and parent training. Parents become the facilitators for their child at home. In this age of fiscal restraints, wait periods, and restrictions in the type, duration and frequency of service, private therapy is a viable complement or alternative to publicly funded service. Through my prior experience in the public system, I gained knowledge about its available resources. Having collaborated with colleagues and other service providers, in a manner that is in the client’s best interests, I appreciate the value of a team approach. Mindful of the scheduling challenges of working parents today, I offer flexible hours including weekend, weekday and after school appointments. My service extends to clients from a variety of locations throughout the GTA. The power of communication is vital to every aspect of our lives.

“The Best And Most Beautiful Things In The World Cannot Be Seen Or Even Touched. They Must Be Felt With The Heart.”-Helen Keller

Feel free to contact me. I offer you an initial conversation at no cost.