Program Description North Words is the preschool speech and language service system for the Kenora and Rainy River Districts. It is one of 32 preschool speech/language programs implemented across Ontario. It is a partnership of district agencies that provides speech, language, and hearing services to preschool children from birth to 70 months of age.
Services include assessment, intervention/therapy, monitoring, consultation, Hanen Parent Programs, group education, in-services, and information distribution. Consultative services are available to all schools with Junior Kindergarten programs, day cares, nursery schools, Associations for Community Living, Infant Development Programs, and other childrens programs.
Referrals to the Program Referrals are accepted from any source including parents, day care workers, and health care providers. The central intake number for referrals is 1-877-553-7122.
Community Partners The Northwestern Health Unit was selected as the lead agency for this Preschool Speech and Language initiative. Service delivery is through a partnership of local agencies including the following:
- Riverside Health Care Facilities Employs 1 Speech-Language Pathologist. Working with the Northwestern Health Unit, provides speech/language services to preschoolers in Fort Frances.
- Atikokan General Hospital Employs1 Speech-Language Pathologist. Provides speech/language services to preschoolers in Atikokan.
- Lake of the Woods Child Development Centre Employs 2 Speech-Language Pathologists and 1 Communication Assistant. Provides speech/language services to preschoolers in Kenora.
For more information about North Words Preschool Speech Language Services - or to access resources and information on stages of speech development, tips and activities you can do with your child to promote speech and language development, areas of concern, and how to get help and advice, go to the North Words website.