Our Programs
Our Vision and Mission
Vision
First Words supports families of preschool children (birth to Junior Kindergarten eligibility) of Ottawa and Renfrew County to reach their optimal communication development.
Mission
To facilitate increased awareness, prevention, early identification, and intervention for early speech, language, and overall communication development for families of preschool children in Ottawa and Renfrew County.
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📢These strategies will help talk to your child in everyday routines.
🗣Keep talking in daily activities. Involve your child in helping out around the house. Toddlers love simple household tasks: wiping the table, sorting the laundry, tidying up the toys. Talk to your child in these everyday routines and household tasks. Name the objects you are both using. Label the actions you or your child are doing when playing, walking to the park, or singing. Repeat difficult or rarer words (e.g., frustrated, rhinoceros).
📚Read to children every day. The sooner you start, the better. The more often you do it, the better. Reading books every day promotes the development of strong speech and language skills. Leave books out for your child to look at, both on their own and with you. Visit libraries and get gently used books from garage sales (once the pandemic is over).
🧸🪁Play is a child’s work. Play with your toddler in lots of different ways by using puzzles, blocks, sand, and play dough. Promote pretend play. Observe the OPH recommendations regarding socializing with other families. But once the pandemic is over, you may want to go to playgroups, drop-ins, or the park so that your child can play with other children.
📺 📱 Avoid screen time. Children learn best from interacting with others around them. Remember the Canadian Pediatric Society recommendation: no screen time under the age of 2 years and limit your child’s screen time to 1 hr/day.
🧐If you are concerned or simply want to check your child’s communication skills, use our First Words Communication Checkup.
📋The FWCCU is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians of children, between the age of 6 months to 4.5 years, living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario. You can use this free online screening tool at any time.
✅As a best practice, screen your child’s communication every 6 months.
#24months #toddlers #talkby2 #toddlerfun #earlylanguage
🌙 As a collective, we have been nspired by the Artemis II mission and have reconnected with our science, astronomy and poetry sides. It feels like space is inviting us to wonder again, to listen and to write.
🌍 We are hopping on the Landsat trend to see what our beautiful Earth reveals for our program’s name, a reminder that even our planet tells a story (Landsat program).
✨ You can do the same by accessing the NASA website and exploring images and data that spark curiosity and imagination.
👨👩👧 Parents, try this with your child’s name and see what stories, shapes or inspirations emerge from space and Earth observations. It becomes a beautiful moment of connection and language building.
#space #language #poetry #earth #curiosity
Congratulations 🌟🌟Your toddler is 24 months old. 🙌Your child is becoming their own little person with particular interests, tastes and desires, with their own personality. A fascinating time for communication development.
🌈Talk, play and read with them every day to boost their communication skills
🚨 Review the communication milestones (as shown in the image) and these additional developmental milestones. Refer immediately if your child shows the following:
· A limited shared interest in others
· Lack of response to their name
· Difficulty with gestures such as showing and pointing
· Difficulty following an adult’s point
· Does not initiate communication
· Limited production of sounds
· Uses more gestures than words to communicate
· Doesn’t seem to understand when you talk to them
· Finds it hard to point to simple pictures or follow simple directions
· Repetitive play or movement behaviours
· Any loss of any social and/or language skills
➡️If you are concerned, refer to First Words as early as possible.
✅ HOW? Fill out the First Words Communication Checkup, our free online screening tool. It takes 15-20 minutes. Once completed, it will give you immediate results. It will tell if your child is following expected milestones or if you should refer to First Words. You can use the screening tool as often as you want – for example, at every important milestone (every 6 months).
#24months #talkby2 #communication #earlyidentification #FWCCU
Once your child is able to string words together, you will notice they will want to share more of their thoughts with you. The ability to talk about stories and experiences is an exciting skill to see our little one develop.
Swipe through the slides to learn how everyday conversations can help children learn how to organize their thoughts, use new words, and build early storytelling skills.
#storytellingskills
#narrativelanguage
#languagedevelopment
#talkwithyourchild
#firstwords
What is First Words?
😊 Wondering what First Words is and how it can support your child’s language development?
💬Learn more about the range of services offered at First Words by watching Module 2 in full. Continue exploring our website to discover simple, practical, research-based strategies to support your child every day.
🌐 Visit the First Words website to watch the full module and learn more.
#firstwords #languagedevelopment #parenting #communication #earlyyears
🎙️ Imitation is a powerful early communication strategy that supports children’s development of intentional communication, understanding language, and learning words, grammar, and sentences.
🗣️Before children can imitate adults, they need adults to imitate them first by copying their actions, play, gestures, sounds, words, and even sentences. This responsive imitation shows interest, builds connection, and encourages interaction, helping children feel seen and motivated to communicate.
🌟 Parents can use imitation naturally throughout daily routines such as talking, playing, singing, and reading, because communication begins with shared attention and engagement.
#imitation #communicationdevelopment #earlylanguage #parentstrategies #communicationstrategies
In Ottawa, many children are being raised as bilinguals. Bilingualism may be a choice for some families, but it may also be a necessity.
As parents of young children learning more than one language, you may have questions about this.
To learn more about this topic:
- Read the FAQ: First Language Use & Bilingualism or
- Check out the Module 6: Learning more than one language on the First Words website.
If you are concerned about your child’s speech and language development, check out our free online First Words Communication Checkup tool.
#firstlanguage #secondlanguage #dominantlanguage #biligual #bilinguism
🌐 Looking for simple ways to help your child learn more than one language? The First Words website has free resources for families and community partners that explain milestones and easy strategies you can use every day.
💡 Go to the First Words website and check out the “Resources” tab. You will find tips and activities to support your child in leaning more than one language.
#parentingtips #babylanguage #earlycommunication #childdevelopment #firstwords
Many of our families at First Words speak more than one language. We often get important questions about how to approach teaching a second language to their children. Here is a list of common questions/answers around bilingualism.
Does your child speak more than one language?
#bilingualism
#languagelearning
#facts
#languagedevelopment
#firstwords
🎥 Welcome to Module 6: Learning more than one language. In this module, you will learn about the recent research on how children learn more than one language. We will also share tips and information on how YOU can help your child in this process.
🗣️ Learning a first language provides the foundation for both brain and communication development. When children have a strong first language, they learn a second language more easily. They also do better at school with reading and writing.
🙋🏻♀️ Many families have questions about their child’s language learning, especially in the context of learning more than one language. We are often asked questions such as “What is a child’s first language?” “Can a child have two first languages?“ “What’s the difference between a first language and a dominant language?”
🎥 To help you better understand, view Module 6. Look for more information in our Resource section. We have different resources that can help you understand the process of dual language learning and find answers to your questions. Look for these 3 resources:
· FAQ on first language and bilingualism,
· Talk in your first language
· Module 6: Learning more than one language.
#language #bilingual #bilingual_kids #bilingualfamilies #learningmorethanonelanguage
💟Learning a language
will not cause speech or language delays.
🔅 Children who are strong in their first language will find it easier to learn another one. Kids learn best from people who speak a language clearly and use it often.
❇️ A child’s first language is usually the one they hear and use most from birth (before age 3). Some children grow up hearing two languages from birth; both can be first languages. Over time, one may become stronger or more dominant.
💟 Children learn language best from parents, siblings, grandparents, friends and caregivers who use the language often and well. It is better for a child to learn one language well than two languages poorly.
🌎 From birth or whenever your family is ready, you can introduce another language. Children around the world grow up speaking two languages successfully.
❇️ A second language is usually learned after age 3, often at daycare or school. But learning can start at any age. Earlier is better!
💟 Growing up with two languages does not confuse children and does not cause delays.
✅ Children learning two languages reach the same speech and language milestones as those learning one.
👀 For more info, visit our website:
FAQ: First Language Use & Bilingualism
Webinar 6: Learning More Than One Language
🚨 Worried about your child’s speech and language? Try our free online First Words Communication Checkup.
#firstlanguage #secondlanguage #dominantlanguage #bilingualkids
🎉 It’s time to get noisy with your child!
➕➕Adding fun sounds while you play with your child grabs their attention and makes interactions more engaging.
🗣️When your child copies you, they are practicing important early communication skills like sounds and gestures.#firstwords
🌟 These simple, playful exchanges help support language development from a very young age!
#getnoisy
#funsounds
#playfultips
#earlylanguage
firstwords
🌐 Looking for simple ways to help your child communicate? The First Words website has free resources for families and community partners that explain early language milestones and easy strategies you can use every day.
🗣️ Try this at home: talk about what your child is doing during play or routines. “You are building a tower.” “The car is fast.” Adding words during everyday moments helps children learn language naturally.
📚 Use books and play to grow vocabulary. Point to pictures, name what you see, and ask simple questions like “What is this?” or “What is happening?”
👉 Visit firstwords.ca and explore the “Help Your Preschooler Develop Language” resources to find practical tips and tools for supporting communication.
#firstwords #earlylanguage #talkplayread #parentingtips #communication
🌐 Looking for simple ways to help your baby or toddler communicate? The First Words website has free resources for families and community partners that explain early language milestones and easy strategies you can use every day.
👶 Boost Early Language Skills
Your baby starts learning language from their first coos and gestures. Talk often, describe what they are doing and name objects around them. Babbling and early sounds are important steps in learning.
🍼 Step by step
Respond to their sounds and smiles. Imitate them and add a simple word. If your baby says « ba », you can say « ball! » This encourages communication and understanding.
🎶 Songs and routines
Sing simple songs and rhymes. Name actions during bath, meals, or dressing. Routines help babies connect words to daily life.
💡 First Words Resources
Find tips and activities to support language from 6 months to 2 years here: https://www.firstwords.ca/help-your-child-develop-early-language
#parentingtips #babylanguage #earlycommunication #childdevelopment #firstwords
Do you have a child who is gravitated towards puddles? This is a normal and wonderful part of early exploration! Puddle play invites curiosity, movement, and shared moments of joy. By joining in and following their lead, you can turn these simple experiences into opportunities for connection and learning. Sometimes the messiest play creates the best memories!
#messyplay
#sensoryplay
#muddypuddles
#connectingthroughexploring
#firstwords
At First Words, we understand that every child’s journey with autism is unique. We are dedicated to supporting children and their families in celebrating differences, embracing strengths, and building connection.
#worldautismday
#autismawareness
#earlyIntervention
#supportingfamilies
#firstwords
✳️ Go check out Module 9 to learn more about how families, early year educators and community professionals can help a child who stutters.
✳️ Check it out on the First Words website under the webinar tab.
#stuttering #dysfluency #strategies #communication #preschool
✳️ If your preschooler is starting to stutter, know that you’re not alone—and there are simple, supportive strategies you can use at home.
✳️ Try slowing your own rate of speech, pausing often, and giving your child plenty of time to finish their thoughts without interrupting or correcting them. Keep eye contact, show interest in what they’re saying (not how they’re saying it), and create relaxed, one-on-one talking moments each day.
✳️ Small changes in how we listen and respond can make a big difference in building your child’s confidence and communication skills.
✳️ For more information on stuttering, check out our webinars on stuttering by visiting our website: www.firstwords.ca/webinars
• Module 8: Why is my child stuttering?
• Module 9: How to help a child who stutters
#preschoolstuttering
#StutteringSupport
#PreschoolSpeech
#ParentTips
#BuildingConfidence
✳️ Go check out Module 8 for more information on stuttering.
✳️ Check it our on the First Words website under the webinar tab.
#stuttering #dysfluency #speech #communication #preschool
✳️ Stuttering in preschoolers is very common. Many children grow out of their stuttering in under a year. However, some children are more susceptible to persistent stuttering and require intervention. Scroll through the slides to learn more about preschool stuttering.
✳️ If you are unsure if your child is stuttering, complete the First Words Communication Checkup online.
✳️ For more information about stuttering, scroll to the last slide.
✳️ You can access our two webinars on stuttering from our website www.firstwords.ca/webinars
••• Module 8: Why is my child stuttering?
••• Module 9: How to help a child who stutters
#preschoolstuttering #normaldysfluencies #repetitions #FirstWords #fluencyofspeech
✳️ DID YOU KNOW?
• About 5% of children stutter
• More boys stutter than girls
• Stuttering runs in families and is not due to anxiety
• Stuttering may be worse when a child is tired, sick or excited
• Most children respond well to therapy
✳️ IS STUTTERING NORMAL?
When children learn to talk, they go through a “normal” phase of repeating words and sounds; also called “dysfluency”.
This phase happens between the ages of 2 and 5 years and can last a few days, weeks, or even up to 6 months.
However, some children may not outgrow this phase and may have a true stuttering problem. If it lasts 6 months or is getting worse, get help.
✳️ If you are concerned:
· Go check it out on The First Words Communication Check-up (FWCCU) tool.
· The FWCCU online screening tool can be used as often as you want, when you need it, or every 6 months.
· It’s free, easy to use, and families get results right away.
· Families in Ottawa and Renfrew County can use it. Families can now fill out the intake form and refer online after completion of the online screening tool.
✳️ In the meantime, check our resource: HOW TO HELP A CHILD WHO STUTTERS on our website www.firstwords.ca
#earlyidentification #stuttering #mybeautifulstutter #normaldysfluencies #communication
🐠 April Fools’ Day is a wonderful chance to grow language through laughter.
😆 Try a simple joke like putting a stuffed animal in your child’s shoes or wearing pyjamas backwards. Then pause and talk about it.
• “What do you notice?”
• “Is that silly or serious?”
• “Why is that funny?”
• “What might happen next?”
🤪Silly moments build big skills. Children learn new words, practice describing, answer questions and use their imagination.
🤩 Keep it light, kind and playful. The goal is connection, not confusion.
🤣Laugh together. Talk together. Grow together.
#aprilfools #laugh #laughwithkids #language #sillyfamily
Babies can begin to use gestures as early as 9 months old. Make your words come to life by adding gestures and fun sounds - this helps them tune into what you are saying. Not only does this help with their understanding of new words, but it also gives children a way to communicate before they’re ready to use words. Research shows that the number and variety of gestures used by 16 months is a strong predictor of future language skills.
For more information about early gesture use including a list of early gestures, check out the « First Words Project - FSU College of Medicine ».
#languagedevelopment
#foundationsofcommunication
#gestures
#FirstWords
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
Here are some common reasons for referral that we receive at First Words. If you’re not sure if your child needs a speech-language assessment, complete our online First Words Communication Checkup to screen your child’s communication skills. At First Words, our clinicians are trained to assess and treat a wide range of communication difficulties.
Know the signs, act early, refer now.
#knowthesigns
#FirstWords
#referyourchild
#buildingcommunication
#supportingyourchild
🐥🌸🐰 Themed books are wonderful tools to support language development in young children.
📚When we read stories connected to special celebrations or seasons like spring for example, children can make meaningful connections to their own experiences. Vocabulary becomes more meaningful, concepts are easier to understand and conversations grow naturally.
🍄Reading around a specific theme also allows children to hear the same words in different contexts. Repetition is key when learning new vocabulary.
🪺Take time to explore the pictures, ask open ended questions and repeat new words throughout the week. Language grows in everyday moments.
#languagedevelopment #earlyliteracy #learningthroughplay #speechtherapy #firstwords
🎓 Is your child ready for school? Our new e-learning module, Module 10, helps you support your child’s school readiness.
🎓Module 10 includes the following sections:
10.1: Introduction: Understanding school readiness and the various factors that impact it.
10.2: Self-Regulation Skills: Recognizing and responding to stressors to maintain balance.
10.3: Vocabulary and Narrative Skills: Understanding the importance of language skills, especially focusing on vocabulary and storytelling skills.
10.4: Phonological Awareness Skills Supporting reading development through sound-letter knowledge.
10.5: Routines: Skills that last a lifetime: Understanding how having strong routines at home helps children feel safe, navigate their day and understand the world.
10.6: School Readiness Additional Resources: A PDF compilation of additional resources for further learning by parents.
🎓Learn about self-regulation, vocabulary, storytelling, phonological awareness, and routines. These skills help your child succeed in school and life.
🎓Go to the First Words website. You can access the module here under the tab WEBINAR. Find Module 10: Stepping Into School and start learning.
🎓Start the module today and help your child grow!
#schoolreadiness #earlylearning #parentingtips #childdevelopment #kindergartenprep
🧑🏽💻The First Words Communication Checkup is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario.
🧠 In the first years of life, your child is building important skills to help them succeed at school 🏫 and later in life.
💻 Our screening tool allows you to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
⬇️You’ll need 15-40 minutes: The screening should take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. You must complete the screening in one sitting, and the intake forms immediately after you receive your results (5-10 minutes).
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
🏫 For any child entering kindergarten next September, you need to guide them before April 1st. The sooner you refer them, the better.
📍Go check it out on www.firstwords.ca - look for the green button on the top right to access the First Words Communication Checkup. On your smartphone or tablet, click on the menu, then SPEECH AND LANGUAGE. You will find the FWCCU.
#firstwords #earlyidentification #speech #language #schoolreadiness
Does your child love their pacifier? Are you worried about how it may affect their communication development?
We hope this post provides some more clarity on how to support your child’s speech and language development while still giving your little one the comfort they need.
#pacifieruse
#pacifiertips
#speechdevelopment
#earlycommunication
#firstwords
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🌟 Wondering how your little one’s communication skills are developing?
🌈 Check out our First Words Module 3: Communication Development Ages & Stages. Module 3 covers everything you need to know about how your child’s communication grows from birth to 48 months! This module is here to guide you on what to expect as your child learns to express themselves—whether it’s those adorable first sounds, early words, or starting to form simple sentences.
🌟 Understanding each stage helps you know if your child might need extra support. Early recognition is key! Knowing the signs and milestones means you can refer early, giving your child the best chance to access First Words services or any other community services.
🌈 Learning about communication stages can make playtime and daily routines more meaningful. You’ll be tuned into your child’s progress, celebrating every new sound, gesture, word and skill along the way!
🌟 Visit our website today at www.firstwords.ca. Explore Module 3 or any other modules in our WEBINAR tab.
🌈 Take action for your child’s communication journey today!
#firstwords #communicationmilestones #agesandstages #speechanguagedevelopment #earlyIntervention
At what age can a parent seek help or a screening?
🧠 From birth. As soon as a parent has a concern, it’s the right time to ask questions.
💻Use the First Words Communication online screening tool to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
👉 If you’re wondering about your child’s development, it’s time to speak to someone.
#firstwords #earlyscreening #parentconcern #earlyidentification #communication
Sound development encompasses many skills such as sounds production, sound play behavior,, imitation skills, and the use of early words.
Try out the strategies to support your child’s speech sound development.
#firstwords #communication #speech #toddlers #speechsound
🚨These strategies will help talk to your child in everyday routines.
💖Keep talking in daily activities. When you talk with children in everyday routines, you are helping them grow and learn how to use communication.
🗣Name the objects used at bath time, when getting dressed, or preparing supper. Label the actions you or your child are doing when playing, walking to the park, or singing. Repeat difficult or rarer words (e.g., umbrella, rhinoceros).
📚Read to children every day. The sooner you start, the better. The more often you do it, the better. Reading books every day promotes the development of strong speech and language skills. Young children love picture books
❌Avoid screen time. Remember the Canadian Pediatric Society recommendation: no screen time under the age of 2 years.
🤔If you are concerned or simply want to check your child’s communication skills, use our First Words Communication Checkup.
💻The FWCCU is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians of children, between the age of 6 months to 4.5 years, living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario. You can use this free online screening tool at any time. As a best practice, screen your child’s communication every 6 months.
#earlylanguage #speech #language #earlyidentification #firstwordscommunicationcheckup
🌟Congratulations. 💖Your toddler is 18 months old. It’s an interesting time for communication.
🗣️🧸📕Talk, play and read with them every day. Talk during daily routines to help your little one grow their communication skills.
⤴️ Review the communication milestones are shown in the image and these additional developmental milestones. Refer immediately if your child shows the following:
•A limited shared interest in others
•Lack of response to their name
•Late-onset or limited use of gestures (e.g. showing or pointing)
•Difficulty following an adult’s point
•Late-onset, limited and/or absence of babbling
•Does not appear to understand the names of familiar things (e.g. body parts or common clothing)
•Does not use gestures, sounds or word attempts to communicate
•Unable to follow a simple one-step direction unless accompanied by a gesture
•Frustrated when trying to communicate (may show you frustration by temper tantrums, biting, hitting)
•Does not appear to be reaching the appropriate milestones
•Limited functional play skills and/or repetitive play and/or repetitive movement behaviours
•Lack of playing with a variety of toys
•Excessive interest in particular toys
•Using a person’s hand as a tool
•Any loss of any social and/or language skills
🤔If you are concerned, refer to First Words as early as possible.
➡️HOW? Fill out the First Words Communication Checkup, our free online screening tool. It takes 15-20 minutes. Once completed, it will give you immediate results. It will tell if your child is following expected milestones or if you should refer to First Words.
🔄You can use the screening tool as often as you want – for example, at every important milestone (every 6 months).
#18months #communication #earlyidentification #FWCCU #FirstWordsCommunicationCheckup
💙 From first concerns to first words, the family relied on First Words services. Together, small steps became big progress.
💙 We are grateful to walk beside families every step of the way to optimize a child’s communication journey.
💙 A big thank you to this amazing parent who spoke so eloquently about their journey with First Words
#firstwords #speechdevelopment #earlyintervention #parentempowerment #communicationmatters
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🧊❄️In the last couple of weeks, here is a fun activity that I have been using during therapy session. A fun ice skating sensory play activity to grow communication
🧊 Freeze little figurines in water using a muffin tin. Pop them out. Now you have tiny ice skaters ready to move.
❄️Sit close. Watch your child. Talk about the action for each animal or person.
🧊 “Slide.”
🧊 “Spin.”
🧊 “Go fast.”
🧊 “Go slow.”
🧊 “Push.”
🧊 “Stop.”
🧊 “Fall down.”
🧊 “Get up.”
❄️ Adapt your language to match your child’s communication development.
❄️ With babies 9 to 18 months, focus on single words and short sentences like: “cold, wet, in, out slide, fall, spin” or “ The cow slides. Oh no, the horse fell. Fall down.”
❄️ With your toddler from 18 months to 3 years, focus on simple sentences to match and expand their language level: “ The horse slides. Push it. It fell. The cow is sliding. She is spinning. “It is melting.”
❄️ With older children, use longer and more complex sentences: “He is skating fast., She is turning in a circle. It is melting because it is warm. First he slides, then he spins.”
🧊 Keep your sentences just a little longer than your child’s.
🧊 Repeat the verbs.
🧊Add one to 2 new words.
❄️Simple play. Rich language. Strong verbs build strong sentences.
#toytalk #speechdevelopment #sensoryplay #languagethroughplay #parentingtips
🗣️For early communicators, learning words that help them express needs and connect with others is more important than naming letters or numbers.
😀 Functional vocabulary—such as words for actions, feelings, and daily routines will allow your child to communicate with those around them throughout the day.
➡️ But for some children, incorporating play with numbers and letters may be helpful to build connection and interaction. Swipe to find out more!
#functionalvocabulary
#languagedevelopment
#parentstrategies
#followtheirinterests
#firstwords
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
👀Hey Parents! Did you know that First Words has free online modules just for you?
🎥 Today, Module 4 is showcased in this post. This module is all about helping your little one talk and play.
✅ It’s full of easy tips and strategies designed to promote communication development at home.
💻Check it out at www.firstwords.ca and start today!
🎤 What can parents do at home to support their child’s language?
🧠 Language grows most in everyday interactions with parents and caregivers. Responsive parenting makes the difference: when parents notice, follow their child’s interests, and respond to every communication attempt, even nonverbal, they build language and self-confidence.
👉 Here are a few simple strategies:
Describe what you see and what your child is doing
Pause and give your child a chance to respond, even with a gesture or look
Ask open-ended questions like “what’s happening?” or “which one do you want?”
Create language routines: sing a song, read a short story, talk about a picture
Take turns in play, like rolling a ball back and forth or stacking blocks
🧠 Every small moment at home becomes a chance to learn. What matters most is not the toy or the book but the connection you build.
👉 The best toy for language development is an interactive, responsive and engaged parent .
#talkplaygrow #dailycommunication #languageboost #homelearning #firstwords
Baby babbles and vocalizations are a child’s earliest attempts at communication. When adults respond by adding meaning—through words, gestures, and expressions—they help babies learn that their sounds have purpose and impact.
This back-and-forth builds the foundation for understanding language, social connection, and learning to say new words!
#babytalk
#languagedevelopment
#addmeaningtotheirsounds
#talkwithyourbaby
#firstwords
✨Today’s video about “Module 2: What is First Words?” is only a teaser … there’s so much more content waiting for you!
➡️ Head to the Webinar section on our website to watch the full Module 2. Don’t miss all the helpful strategies for your preschooler!
#firstwords #communication #firstwordscommunicationcheckup #firstwordsservices #module2
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #earlyid #speechlanguage #communication #schoolreadiness
🤩We are excited to announce that we have launched our new Module: “What is First Words?
💻Check out our website to view the full video.
💕We hope that this module provides helpful information to parents, caregivers, and our community partners.
#newmodulelaunch
#whoweare
#FirstWords
#ourservices
#refernow
💙 Family day is about connection. Simple moments like talking, playing and reading together help build strong communication skills from babyhood to preschool. Every moment counts.
1. Talk about what you are doing together
Everyday moments are rich language opportunities. While cooking, playing or getting ready, describe what you see and do. Use short sentences for babies and add more details for preschoolers. Hearing language in real situations helps children understand words and how conversations work.
2. Read, sing and tell stories as a family
Sharing books, songs and simple stories builds attention, vocabulary and connection. Babies benefit from hearing your voice and seeing pictures, while preschoolers enjoy predicting what happens next and answering simple questions. It is about enjoying the moment together, not finishing the book.
3. Follow your child’s lead during play
Watch what your child is interested in and join in. Imitate their sounds, actions or words, then add one small idea or word. This back-and-forth interaction supports early communication skills and helps children feel heard and confident.
4. Make time for face-to-face moments
Put phones away for a few minutes and focus on each other. Eye contact, smiles and turn-taking during play or routines support social communication skills from the very beginning. These small moments add up and strengthen family connections.
💙Language grows best through everyday connection and shared joy.
#familyday #earlylanguage #parenttips #talkplayread #preschoollife
💌 HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!
Talk about the feelings you see and feel today. Name emotions like love, happy, and excited to help your child learn new words.
#valentinesday #earlylanguage #talkaboutfeelings #parenttips #familytime
💕📚 Celebrate Valentine’s Day with this sweet book about seeking out your special someone to be your Valentine.
💖 This simple story is perfect for talking about love, feelings and Valentine’s Day with your little one.
❤️Use it to explore words like heart, hug, and happy.
💖 Talk about the pictures and ask questions like, “What do you think love means?”, “Who do you love ?” or “Who would you want as a valentine?”.
💕📚 Books like this help your child learn new words and express their feelings.
💖 Reading together builds language and helps your child learn about caring for others.
❤️ Snuggle up and enjoy some quality time together.
💖 Happy reading and Happy Valentine’s Day!
#valentinesday #childrensbooks #readingwithkids #earlyliteracy
💡 Tip for parents
❤️Talk about what you’re doing together.
❤️Name the objects, describe the actions, and add emotions like happy, proud, and loved.
❤️Even just a few words repeated often make a big difference for language development.
#valentinesday #bemyvalentine #willyoubemyvalentine #valentinesforkids #communication
Here is a quick sneak peak into a project we have been working on: Module 2 revamp - “What is First Words?”
This updated module will include the services we offer, information on how to refer, and much more! It will also feature some of our clinicians, giving you a closer look at the people behind your care.
We can’t wait to share the new and improved module with our families and community partners!
#sneakpeak
#firstwordswebinars
#ourservices
#preschoolspeechandlanguage
#howtorefer
✨This workshop is offered in French only.
✨Are you a parent of a child aged 0 to 4? Do you have questions regarding communication development?
✨Join us for a workshop on early language development by signing up on Eventbrite with the QR code.
#speechlanguageworkshop
#communication #ottawafamilies #parents #communication development
🌟 Celebrate Black History Month with stories that inspire and empower! 🌟
✨🌟 Did you know that diverse representation in books is incredibly important for our little ones? When kids see characters who look like them in stories, it helps them feel seen, valued, and accepted.
🌟✨ Research shows that exposure to diverse books can boost empathy, self-esteem, and cultural understanding in children (Gehlbach & Brinkworth, 2020; Kidd & Castano, 2013). So let’s fill our bookshelves with stories that reflect the beautiful diversity of our world!
📚 Books introduce children to new words, ideas, and perspectives. This month, we’re showcasing picture books by Black authors that nurture communication skills in preschoolers.
#blackhistory #blackhistorymonth #communication #community #connection
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
📚 During Family Literacy Week, First Words is happy to share a wonderful and funny book: A Loud Winter’s Nap.
✨ This book builds language, empathy and a love of stories.
🕰 Reading every day helps your child build their language and literacy skills. A book a day helps build skills for later success!
👩👧 You can support language at home by:
📖 reading together every day
🖼 talking about the pictures and what the animals are doing
🔄 repeating simple phrases
🗣 letting your child tell the story in their own words
💛 These small steps make a big difference for language development and the joy of reading.
#familyliteracy #readingwithkids #language #toddlers #earlyliteracy
📚 Reading every day helps build your child’s vocabulary and understanding.
🗣️ Books help children learn new words, ideas, and ways to talk. And much more!
👶 Start early! Even babies learn from your voice and pictures.
📚 Read daily to your baby, toddler or preschooler to build strong language skills.
🌐 Visit the First Words website for tips and book ideas. Watch Module 5: The Power of Books to learn more about ways to grow your child’s communication development.
#firstwords #earlyliteracy #languagelearning #readwithkids #speechdevelopment
📚 Reading to your child every day adds thousands of new words to their world.
💬 Even a few minutes a day boost language and understanding.
🌟 Try the practical actions suggested in the post to grow your child’s love of books and communication.
#firstwords #languagedevelopment #reading #parenting #connection
🌟 January 27th is National Family Literacy Day.
🧠 Did you know that engaging in conversations, singing tunes, reading stories, and playful activities actually stimulates the brain? These interactions build neural connections, enhancing a child’s cognitive abilities and setting the stage for language and literacy development!
✨Family literacy starts with interaction and communication. Interaction and communication lead to literacy.
✨Family Literacy refers to the many ways families develop and use literacy skills to do normal day-to-day tasks and activities, like writing a note to a child’s teacher, sharing a bedtime story, making a shopping list or reading a recipe.
🌟Many family literacy activities are within your reach. All these activities can be done right from birth with babies and continued right through the preschool years. These effective family literacy practices and activities can be integrated into your daily routines. These include:
- Having meaningful interactions and communicating
- Singing and listening to music with children
- Telling stories to your children
- Sharing stories and books with children
- Drawing and writing with your kids
- Including pre-reading activities to build literacy skills.
🧠 All these activities help your child grow their language skills and pave the way to literacy. Research shows that children with strong language and literacy skills do better in school and in life.
#family #familyliteracy #familyliteracyday #literacymagic #speechlanguagepathology
Help teach your child early concepts to help build their understanding of how words relate to the world around them. Language understanding is the foundation for later skills, including following directions, talking, and much more! When children understand words first, they are better able to use them meaningfully as their communication and thinking skills grow.
#earlylanguage
#languageandlistening
#followingdirections
#earlyconcepts
#languageinaction
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🍼💬 At 12 months, many babies use sounds (5-6 sounds), gestures (4 or more), and a few early words (3-5 words; they are not clearly articulated) to interact, communicate and share what they want. You may hear simple words like “mama” or “dada,” and lots of babbling mixed with real words. They are beginning to understand simple instructions and love it when you respond to their efforts to communicate.
🍼💬 Tips to encourage:
1️⃣ Name everyday objects and actions as you interact, explore and play together.
2️⃣ Imitate sounds and word approximations your baby makes. Wait after this imitation to give your baby time to repeat and respond.
3️⃣ Celebrate every sound or word attempt to build your baby’s confidence.
#babyspeech #12monthold #earlylanguage #parentingtip #babydevelopment
👉These strategies will help you talk to your child in everyday routines.
🏠 Keep talking in daily activities. When you do talk with children in everyday routines, you are helping your child develop their speech and language. Name the objects used at bath time, when getting dressed, or preparing supper. Label the actions you or your child are doing when playing, walking to the park, or singing. Repeat words often.
📚 Read to children every day. Reading books every day promotes the development of strong speech and language skills. The sooner you start, the better. Even toddlers love to be read to. Use books with simple pictures. Talk about the pictures in the book. The more often you do it, the better.
🚫Avoid screen time. Remember the Canadian Pediatric Society recommendation: no screen time under the age of 2 years. However, connecting through FaceTime, Zoom or Skype with a parent working shifts or grandparents living far way is fine.
⁉️📋If you are concerned or simply want to check your child’s communication skills, use our First Words Communication Checkup. The FWCCU is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians of children, between the age of 6 months to 4.5 years, living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario. You can use this free online screening tool at any time. As a best practice, screen your child’s communication every 6 months.
#earlylanguage #earlysounds #speech #language #earlyidentification
Congrats! 💖Your baby is now 12 months: your baby has figured out how to use facial expressions, gestures, sounds, babbling and now even words or approximations of words to get your attention, to show you a toy or an object, to play and be social with you. Basically, to communicate! Hurray! What should you expect in the next few months:
✴️Babbling and speech sound production continue to become more complex. Your baby will use different syllables (badabada) and new sounds to play with sounds or chat with you. Respond immediately to their babbling attempts and keep it going.
💟 You might hear words and «word approximations » (sounds your baby makes and may resemble a word). Repeat it back to your child –even if you aren’t sure that your baby meant it.
✴️ Gestures continue to be important at that age. Think of gestures as “words in action”. Model gestures to your baby when you talk to them. Respond to their gestures as if they were words. Pointing is an important gesture and milestone. Use pointing with your baby – go around the house and point to objects or things you see outside. React immediately when your baby uses pointing to show your something.
‼️ Refer if your child is not meeting these communication or developmental milestones:
•Limited eye gaze
•Limited shared interest in others
•Limited social smiling
•Lack of sound imitation: if your child is unusually quiet or does not attempt to repeat sounds or words
•Absence of babbling with consonant sounds
•Late-onset/limited use of gestures (i.e. reaching to be picked up)
•The child does not appear to be reaching the appropriate milestones
•Any loss of any social and/or language skills
If you have noticed any missed milestones or if you are concerned, fill out the First Words Communication Checkup. This free online screening tool will give you immediate results and tell you if you should refer to First Words.
💻You can use the FWCCU screening tool as often as you want – for example, at every important milestone (every 6 months).
#12months #communication #earlyidentification #FirstWordsCommunicationCheckup #Knowthesigns
Does your child love to copy what you’re doing around the house? That’s because they want to be involved. Everyday routines are wonderful opportunities to build connection and support communication development—simply by talking about what you’re doing and inviting them to join in.
#EverydayLearning
#LittleHelpers
#FirstWords
#LanguageInDailyLife
#LearningAtHome
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year to the First Words program is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if referred before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #speechlanguage #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🧑🏽💻The First Words Communication Checkup is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario.
🧠 In the first years of life, your child is building important skills to help them succeed at school 🏫 and later in life.
💻 Our screening tool allows you to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
⬇️You’ll need 15-40 minutes: The screening should take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. You must complete the screening in one sitting, and the intake forms immediately after you receive your results (5-10 minutes).
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
🏫 For any child entering kindergarten next September, you need to guide them before April 1st. The sooner you refer them, the better.
📍Go check it out on www.firstwords.ca - look for the green button on the top right to access the First Words Communication Checkup. On your smartphone or tablet, click on the menu, then SPEECH AND LANGUAGE. You will find the FWCCU.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🎤 Does a parent need a referral to access First Words services?
🧠 No referral is needed.
👉 Parents can access First Words services at any time by screening and registering your child via the First Words Communication Checkup online screening tool.
💻 Parents can contact us directly or register online. Our screening tool allows you to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
⬇️You’ll need 15-40 minutes: The screening should take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. You must complete the screening in one sitting, and the intake forms immediately after you receive your results (5-10 minutes).
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
📍Go check it out on www.firstwords.ca - look for the green button on the top right to access the First Words Communication Checkup. On your smartphone or tablet, click on the menu, then SPEECH AND LANGUAGE. You will find the FWCCU.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
We’re here when you’re ready.
#accesdirect #sansréférence #facileàaccéder #orthophonielibre #aideimmédiate #premiersmotsottawa #supportfamilies #earlyaccess #noappointmentneeded #parentfirst
Happy New Year to you and your family. May this fresh start bring simple moments that help your child grow with confidence and joy.
#parentingottawa #parentsottawa #firstwordsottawa #preschoollanguage #developpementlangagier #orthophonie #famillesottawa #parentscanada #newyearfamily #bonneannee
Welcome to First Words of Ottawa and Renfrew County. Thank you for being here!
If you have any questions about First Words and the services we offer, visit our website.
Please share our page and resources with your family and friends!
#FirstWords #PremiersMots #ourservices #nosservices familycentered centrésurlafamille communicationdevelopment développmentdelacommunicaiton whoarewe quisommes-nous
Wishing you and your little ones a warm and joyful holiday season. Hope your home feels cozy and full of connection today.
#parentingottawa #parentsottawa #firstwordsottawa #preschoollanguage #developpementlangagier #orthophonie #famillesottawa #parentscanada #holidaymoments #tempsdesfetes
🎁 The holidays are full of moments to talk, play, and connect with your child.
✨ Use everyday routines like wrapping gifts, cooking, or decorating to add words and fun sounds.
🗣️ Talk about what you see and do: big gifts, sparkly lights, open the box, share the toy.
❄️ Ask simple questions and take turns talking together.
📖 Read favourite books and make up little holiday stories.
❤️ These small moments build language, confidence, and connection, one conversation at a time.
#holidaytalk #talkplayread #earlylanguage #parentingtips #firstwords #langagedeveloppement #jouerapprendre #lecturepartagee #parlonsensemble #communication
🍼💬 At 9 months, babies start using more speech-like sounds. You may hear babbling with repeated syllables like “bababa” or “dadada.” They are learning how conversation works and practicing sounds they will use later for words.
🍼💬 Tips to encourage:
1️⃣ Imitate your baby’s sounds and wait for them to respond.
2️⃣ Put words to what they are looking at or playing with.
3️⃣ Pause during songs or routines to give your baby a turn to vocalize.
#babyspeech #9monthold #earlylanguage #parentingtip #babydevelopment
👉These strategies will help talk to your child in everyday routines.
🏠 Keep talking in daily activities. When you do talk with children in everyday routines, you are helping your child develop their speech and language development. Name the objects used at bath time, when getting dressed, or preparing supper. Label the actions you or your child are doing when playing, walking to the park, or singing. Repeat difficult or rarer words (e.g., umbrella, rhinoceros).
📚 Read to children every day. Reading books every day promotes the development of strong speech and language skills. The sooner you start, the better. Even babies love picture books. The more often you do it, the better.
🚫Avoid screen time. Remember the Canadian Pediatric Society recommendation: no screen time under the age of 2 years. However, connecting through FaceTime, Zoom or Skype with a parent working shifts or grand-parents living afar is fine.
⁉️📋If you are concerned or simply want to check your child’s communication skills, use our First Words Communication Checkup. The FWCCU is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians of children, between the age of 6 months to 4.5 years, living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario. You can use this free online screening tool at any time. As a best practice, screen your child’s communication every 6 months.
#earlylanguage #earlysounds #speech #language #earlyidentification #firstwordscommunicationcheckup #parenting #everydayparent #youmakeadifference #parentingdoneright #ottawamoms #parentinginottawa #firstwords #earlyoncenterottawa
Congrats! 💖Your baby is now 9 months: your baby has figured out how to use facial expressions, gestures, sounds, and babbling to get your attention, to show you a toy or an object, to play and be social with you. Basically to communicate! Hurray!
What should you expect in the next few months:
✴️Babbling will become more complex. Your baby will start combining different syllables (badabada) to play with sounds or chat with you. Respond immediately to their babbling attempts and keep it going.
💟Your baby will start using more gestures. Model gestures to your baby when you talk to them. Respond to their gestures as if they were words. Gestures are true “words in action”.
✴️Pointing is an important gesture and milestone. Use pointing with your baby – go around the house and point to objects or things you see outside. React immediately when your baby uses pointing to show you something.
💟You might hear “word approximations” (those are sounds your baby makes and may resemble a word). Repeat it back to your child –even if you aren’t sure that your baby meant it.
‼️ Refer immediately if your child shows the following differences:
•Limited eye gaze
•Limited shared interest in others
•Limited social smiling
•Lack of sound imitation: if your child is unusually quiet or does not attempt to repeat sounds or words
•Absence of babbling with consonant sounds
•Late-onset/limited use of gestures (i.e. reaching to be picked up)
•The child does not appear to be reaching the appropriate milestones
•Any loss of any social and/or language skills
If you have noticed any missed milestones or if you are concerned, fill out the First Words Communication Checkup. This is our free online screening tool: it will give you immediate results. It will tell if your child is following expected milestones or if you should refer to First Words. You can use the screening tool as often as you want – for example, at every important milestone (every 6 months).
#9months #communication #earlyidentification #FWCCU #FirstWordsCommunicationCheckup #Knowthesigns #ActEarly #refernow
🤩 In one of our recent posts, we shared information about the importance of reaching early words milestones.
➡️ Swipe through the slides to see examples of a child reaching language milestones from 12 months to 36 months.
💭Research shows that children who use fewer words at 12 months old continue to have delays at 24 and at 36 months.
📍If you feel like your child is not reaching milestones, complete our First Words Communication Checkup (online screening & referral) today! Don’t wait. Act now.
#Firstwords #PremiersMots #jalonsduevocabulaire #vocabularymilestones #preschool #préscolaire #communication #earlyliteracy #littératieprécoce #languagedevelopment #developpementlangagier
✨ REPOST: WORD MILESTONES
👶 Around 1 year: Children usually say their first words like “mama” or “ball.”
👶 Around 2 years: Children may use 50+ words and start combining 2-4 words like “more juice” or “big truck go fast.”
👶 Around 3 years: Children often have 500-1000 words and use short sentences like “I want cookie” or “Where is my bear?”
✨ STRATEGIES FOR PARENTS
🧩 Label objects during daily routines: “Here is your spoon.”
🧩 Imitate and repeat the gestures, sounds, words and sentences your child makes.
🧩Expand your child’s words: If they say “car,” you can say “Yes, a red car.”
🧩 Read and re-read favorite books. Repetition builds vocabulary.
Language milestones are important. If you have concerns, visit firstwords.ca to:
Use our free online screening tool, the First Words Communication Checkup.
Check out Module 3: Ages & Stages - -Communication Development 0-4 years
#earlylanguage #wordmilestones #preschoollanguage #languagegrowth #firstwordsottawa #communication #languagedevelopment #learnthroughplay #parentingtips #speechandlanguage
🧠 Early Detection Matters! Identifying speech and language delays early can make a big difference. Research shows that infants who struggle with language face challenges later on in life.
🧠Early detection of speech and language delays helps kids get the right support fast. Much research shows that early screening, before the age of 18 months, leads to quicker help for your little ones.
📢 Is your child not meeting their communication milestones? Don’t wait and see. Early referral is so important! Sometimes, parents are invited to “wait and see”.
📢 But as parents, you can take action now, especially if you are concerned or have questions about your child’s development.
🌟 Follow your child’s communication milestones. How? It is simple, visit our website and:
1 – Read the MILESTONES section under the RESOURCES table
2 – USE our online screening tool: FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP.
📢 Empower yourself. Use the First Words Communication Checkup (FWCCU) tool to see how your child is doing and where they might need extra help. The FWCCU is designed to screen children from 6 months to 4 years. You can use the screening tool every 6 months to make sure your child is on the trajectory for communication development. When you use the FWCCU, you get immediate results and a recommendation for the next steps. If a referral is recommended, you can do it online immediately.
🌟 Early intervention can make a big difference in your child’s development and future success.
📢 Remember, early action leads to better outcomes. Don’t wait. Refer now!
#earlyintervention #communicationmilestones #empowerparents #doneWait #refernow #childdevelopment #speechtherapy #firstwords
How does a child’s sensory preferences affect communication?
By paying attention to your child’s sensory needs, you can create moments where they feel safe, calm, and engaged. This opens the door for more eye contact, shared play, and opportunities to learn new words. Check out the slides for information on how to support your child’s sensory needs when engaging with them.
#sensoryinput #apportssensoriels #connexion #connection #régulationsensoriel #sensoryregulation #FirstWords #PremiersMots #prêtàapprendre #readytolearn #sensorydevelopment #développementsensoriel #développementduLangage #language development
🌟 Wondering how your little one’s communication skills are developing?
⏩️ Check out our First Words Module 3: Communication Development Ages & Stages. Module 3 covers everything you need to know about how your child’s communication grows from birth to 48 months! This module is here to guide you on what to expect as your child learns to express themselves—whether it’s those adorable first sounds, early words, or starting to form simple sentences.
🌟 Understanding each stage helps you know if your child might need extra support. Early recognition is key! Knowing the signs and milestones means you can refer early, giving your child the best chance to access First Words services or any other community services.
🌈 Learning about communication stages can make playtime and daily routines more meaningful. You’ll be tuned into your child’s progress, celebrating every new sound, gesture, word and skill along the way!
🌟 Visit our website today at www.firstwords.ca. Explore Module 3 or any other modules in our WEBINAR tab.
✨Start today. Take action for your child’s communication journey today!
#firstwords #communicationmilestones #agesandstages #languagedevelopment #speechdevelopment #earlyIntervention #babies #toddlers #preschoolers
Do all children develop language at their own pace or are there milestones to follow?
🧠 Every child develops at their own pace, but there are important milestones to ensure everything is progressing well.
👉 Check out the following resources on our First Words website to learn more about your child’s communication development milestones:
• The First Words Communication Checkup, our online screening and referral tool
• Module 3 - Communication Milestones from Birth to 48 Months under the WEBINARS tab
• Communication Milestones under the RESOURCES tab
#developmentmilestones #speech #language #communication #parentguide #milestonemonitoring #firstwordsottawa #speechmilestones #languagemilestones #communicationdevelopment #childgrowth #firstwordsottawa
🧑🏽💻The First Words Communication Checkup is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario.
🧠 In the first years of life, your child is building important skills to help them succeed at school 🏫 and later in life.
💻 Our screening tool allows you to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
⬇️You’ll need 15-40 minutes: The screening should take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. You must complete the screening in one sitting, and the intake forms immediately after you receive your results (5-10 minutes).
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
🏫 For any child entering kindergarten next September, you need to guide them before April 1st. The sooner you refer them, the better.
📍Go check it out on www.firstwords.ca - look for the green button on the top right to access the First Words Communication Checkup. On your smartphone or tablet, click on the menu, then SPEECH AND LANGUAGE. You will find the FWCCU.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🎶 Singing with your baby is more than just fun. It’s a powerful way to support their early communication and learning.
🎤Your baby loves the sound of your voice. These moments of shared joy help them feel safe, loved, and ready to learn.
#singwithbaby #chanteravecbébé #connection #connexion #FirstWords #PremiersMots #engagement #turntaking #touràtour
📺 Did you know? Too much screen time can get in the way of your child’s language development. When screens replace face-to-face interaction, children miss valuable opportunities to learn words, gestures, and social skills.
💬 On the First Words website, check out Module 7. It will help you understand how screen time impacts communication and gives you easy tips to build your child’s language through everyday interactions.
🌐 Visit our website to explore Module 7 and discover fun, simple ways to help your child talk and connect with you: www.firstwords.ca
#FirstWords #PremiersMots #SpeechLanguage #LangageOral #ParentTips #ConseilsParents #EarlyLanguage #LangagePrécoce #ScreenTime #tempsdecran
REPOST
🗣️The amount of time parents and children spend watching their screens has noticeably increased over the years. Swipe through the slides to learn about the impacts of screentime on your child’s communication development.
🗣️Be sure to check out Module 7 “The impact of screen time on language development”, located on our First Words website, under “Webinars”.
#screentime #tempsdécran #talktoyourchild #parleàtonenfant #playwithyourchild #joueravecvotreenfant #reducescreens #réduiredesécrans#firstwords #premiersmots
📱 Screens can’t replace real connection. Children learn to communicate through shared smiles, words, and play.
😊 Talking, reading, and playing together boosts language, curiosity, and confidence.
💬 Even a few minutes of daily reading or play make a big difference.
🌟 Turn off screens, look your baby in the eyes, and enjoy these special moments to learn and grow together.
💬 Today, plan a screen-free moment and focus on being fully present with your child. Try our 4 practical tips!
💻 Want to learn more? Watch Module 7: Screen Time and the Impact on Language Development on the First Words website! Get simple, research-based tips to support your child’s language development.
#firstwords #languagedevelopment #parenting #screentime #connection #babies #toddlers #preschoolers #childdevelopment #learning #familytime # #communication #learning #connection #parents #playtime
Flashcards - are they beneficial or not?
Using flashcards to grow your child’s vocabulary is not recommended.
Young children learn language best through back-and-forth interactions, like playing, pretending, exploring, and talking with caregivers in natural situations. Flashcards don’t give children real reasons to communicate, and they don’t show how words fit into everyday activities. Swipe through the pictures to learn more.
#flashcards #cartesmémoire #dailyroutines #routinesquotidiennes #toddlers #bambins #functionallanguage #langagefonctionnel #learnthroughplay #apprendreparlejeu #FirstWords #PremiersMots
🌟November 20 is National Child Day in Canada.
🌟On November 20, we celebrate the National Day of Children’s Rights, highlighting the importance of nurturing and supporting our youth. Every child deserves a voice and the chance to thrive.
🌟In Ottawa, our First Words program empowers families with resources about communication development and early literacy, helping parents foster a love for reading.
🌟Let’s join together to protect and uplift our children, ensuring their rights are respected and their potential realized.
💬✨« The most important thing you can give a child is your time. » — Oren Arnold
#EveryChildEveryRight #Journéeinternationaledel’enfant #Journéeinternationaledel’enfantCanada #NationalChildDay #NationalChildDayCanada #Parlezauxenfants #Jouezaveclesenfants #lLisezauxenfants #Talktochildren #Playwithchildren #readtochildren
🌐 Looking for more ideas to support your child’s communication? Visit our website for free parent resources! You will find tips and tools on early language milestones, speech sound development, stuttering, first language and bilingualism, reading with your child, and preparing for school.
🌐 Explore tips and suggestions, fact sheets and webinars designed to help your child thrive.
🌐 Our First Words website is full of resources for parents, educators and community workers.
#parenttips #earlylanguage #speechandlanguage #firstwords #preschoollearning #readwithyourchild #talkplaylearn #childdevelopment #parentresources #ottawaparents
💻 Visit our website to complete the First Words Communication Checkup (FWCCU) - an online screening of your child’s communication and global development for families living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario.
👩💻Complete the FWCCU to:
• Screen your child’s communication and global development
• Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire
• Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
• Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
#FirstWords #PremiersMots #communication #FWCCU #actnow #agismaintenant #Bilandelacommunication #parole #langage #language #babies #bébés #n’attendspas #actnow
🌿 Early language experiences make a big difference in your child’s development. Research shows that children learn best when language is part of play, daily routines, and shared moments with caring adults. Here are 4 simple strategies to try at home:
✨ USE GESTURES, FUN SOUNDS, AND WORDS
Research shows gestures and sounds make language more memorable. Try waving while saying “bye-bye” or making a “vroom” sound with a toy car. This helps your child connect words with actions.
✨ ADD WORDS AND NEW IDEAS
Children build stronger vocabularies when adults expand what they say. If your child says “dog,” you can add “Yes, the big brown dog is running.” Try this during walks or playtime.
✨ NAME THINGS YOU SEE AND DO IN DAILY ACTIVITIES
Talking during everyday routines gives children thousands of extra words. While cooking, name items like “spoon, bowl, mix.” At bath time, say “wash arms, wash toes.”
✨ TALK, PLAY, READ, GROW TOGETHER
Reading every day, even for a few minutes, builds early literacy skills and strengthens your bond. Try asking “What do you see?” or “What will happen next?”
💻 Visit firstwords.ca for more strategies and free resources.
#language #preschool #parenttips #earlylearning #playtogether #readtogether #firstwordsottawa #dailyhabits #communication #earlyliteracy
❤️From the moment a baby is born, parents and caregivers play an important role in helping them learn to communicate. Every smile, sound, gesture, and conversation helps your child understand how language works.
😀One of the most important strategies for supporting communication is getting face-to-face with your child. This helps them focus on you, learn how sounds and words are made, and feel more connected during interactions.
#faceàface #facetoface #langage #language #babies #bébés #FirstWords #PremiersMots #connection #connexion #foundationsofcommunication #fondementsdelacommunication
📖🐒 Dear Zoo by Rod Campbell is a classic that little ones love! Its simple structure, repetition, and surprise element make it perfect for building early language.
🦁 Each page invites children to guess, comment, and repeat. You can model words like:open, big, heavy, noisy
while expanding sentences: The lion is fierce.
🐘 The flaps make the book interactive and engaging, encouraging your little onesto participate with excitement.
🐊 It is also a great book for practicing speech production of longer words. The animals give lots of chances to try 2-syllable words (lion), 3-syllable words (elephant), or even 4-syllable words (hippopotamus). You can compare short words (dog) to longer words (alligator).
💬 Reading books like Dear Zoo helps your child build vocabulary, memory, and sequencing skills while creating joyful connections.
🌐 Visit the First Words website for more resources to support your child’s communication.
#dearzoo #firstwords #earlyliteracy #languagelearning #preschoolfun #readtogether #earlylearning #vocabularybuilding #familyreading #childdevelopment
🧑🏽💻The First Words Communication Checkup is an online screening tool created for parents and legal guardians living in Ottawa and Renfrew County, Ontario.
🧠 In the first years of life, your child is building important skills to help them succeed at school 🏫 and later in life.
💻 Our screening tool allows you to:
· Screen your child’s communication and global development.
· Get instant results based on how you answer the questionnaire.
· Get recommended next steps to support your child’s development.
· Complete your referral online to send your child’s results to the recommended service for their development.
⬇️You’ll need 15-40 minutes: The screening should take approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. You must complete the screening in one sitting, and the intake forms immediately after you receive your results (5-10 minutes).
✅ Get instant results: This assessment tool screens for speech, language, social communication, fine and gross motor skills while providing instant results based on the answers you provide.
🏫 For any child entering kindergarten next September, you need to guide them before April 1st. The sooner you refer them, the better.
📍Go check it out on www.firstwords.ca - look for the green button on the top right to access the First Words Communication Checkup. On your smartphone or tablet, click on the menu, then SPEECH AND LANGUAGE. You will find the FWCCU.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
😊 When you respond to your baby’s face, you build trust, connection and language. Babies look and smile much less when a parent’s face goes still.
💬 Today, take a minute to connect face to face with your child. Try the 4 practical tips shared in our post
#firstwords #languagedevelopment #speech #langage #communication #parenting #connection #talkwithyourchild #readtoyourchild #singtoyourchild
💭Interpreting your child’s messages is a great way to support their communication and to help them learn how language works.
☝🏽When your child uses a gesture, or facial expression, they are already sending you a message — even if they don’t have words yet!
🙌🏻By “interpreting” what they might be trying to say and putting it into simple words, you show your child that their messages matter and that communication is powerful. This helps them connect their ideas and feelings to words, building a strong foundation for talking later on.
⏩️ Swipe to see a video example.
#Interprétez #Interpret #LangageEnConstruction #BuildingLanguage #HabiletésLangagières #Languageskills #FirstWords #PremiersMots
🧠 Big Tips in Small MomentsLanguage is the best tool for predicting a child’s success in school (to read and write) and in life (to make friends, to build social relationships, for future jobs).
🔖 Research shows that early identification and intervention of speech and language delays are linked with better outcomes for young children.
🧐Curious about risk factors, red flags, and, protective factors when it comes to communication development? Go watch our First Words webinar: “Module1: Act early. Refer.” You will find lots of useful information about the development of communication in preschoolers.
🧰 If you have concerns about your child’s communication development or simply want to check if your child is meeting speech and language milestones, go to our website and fill out our free online First Words Communication Checkup tool.
🌐 All our parent-friendly language modules are FREE on the First Words website.
💡 Real-life routines, simple strategies, and expert tips! Ready when you are!
👉 Visit firstwords.ca and click on the Webinar tab to get started!
#firstwords #earlylanguage #parentingtips #languagelearning #slpsupport #preschoollanguage #learnthroughplay #speechandlanguage #bilingualkids #earlyliteracy
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if you refer your child before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted. Refer as early as possible.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
🚌Ready for school? If your child is starting junior kindergarten next September (Fall 2026), this information is for you!
🚨 The deadline to refer a child going to Junior Kindergarten next year is April 1st.
🖍️Referrals for children entering Junior Kindergarten will be accepted if you refer your child before April 1st (of their JK year).
✍️ We must receive your child’s completed Intake package before April 1st to receive our services.
🙂↔️Referrals after this date will not be accepted. Refer as early as possible.
💻 To determine if your child needs speech and language services, go to the First Words website and access the free online tool, the FIRST WORDS COMMUNICATION CHECKUP (FWCCU). In one single visit, you can do the FWCCU screening, get immediate results, and if services are recommended, start AND complete the referral online if needed.
#firstwords #earlyid #earlyidentification #speech #language #communication #buildingthebrain #schoolreadiness
📣 We are happy to share that the wait time to receive a speech and language assessment at First Words is just 3 months from referral!
😁We know that early intervention can make a big difference in a child’s communication and overall development, so our goal is to shorten wait times and give families timely access to care.
🧐If you are wondering about your child’s speech and language skills, take 15-20 minutes to complete our First Words Communication Checkup online to find out if a referral for a full assessment is needed. Don’t wait, act now!
🧑🏽💻Visit us today: www.firstwords.ca
#FWCCU #don’twait #n’attendspas #actnow #agismaintenant #communicationcheckup #Bilandelacommunication #interventionprécoce #communication communication #firstwords #language #speech #babies #toddlers #preschoolers #firstwordscommunicationcheckup #premiersmots #parole #langage #bébés #bambins #préscolaire #bilandelacommunicationdepremiersmots
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