Children with hearing loss sometimes show delays in speech and language development.  Such delays can have significant impact during the childhood years as this is when children are building the foundations for language, foundations which will last their entire lives.

To help with childhood language and speech development The Canadian Hearing Society offers Language Thru Play, a program for both parents and children under the age of 5.  The program is managed by speech-language pathologists who specialize in communication disorders unique to children with hearing loss.

Language Thru Play sessions involve natural play to develop and expand children's speech, language and/or listening skills.  Parents, through observation and participation, also learn speech, language and/or listening development techniques that they can then use with their children. 

Information For Parents And Caregivers 

We provide also provide information and assistance to parents and caregivers (individually or in groups) about childhood speech and language development, communication options, what services are available, and how to access these services.   

Information For Childcare Professionals

If you are a childcare professional (e.g. speech-language pathologist, audiologist, teacher, early childhood educator, etc.) we can also provide useful information regarding hearing loss as it relates to:

• speech and language development
• environmental considerations (background noise, lighting, listening environments – number of speakers, distance from speakers, etc.)
• assistive devices (FM systems, amplified phones and TTYs, light signalling and alarms)  

Workshops For Parents, Caregivers And Professionals

Workshops are available to parents, caregivers and professionals about hearing loss as it relates to speech and language development, language development facilitation techniques, and communication and educational placement options.

How To Get Started 

To get started you can click the Contact Us button above.  The Speech-Language Pathology department at CHS is also a partner of the Infant Hearing Program (IHP) and most referrals are made through this program.  If you are involved in the program then you can ask your provider for a referral.