Preschool Speech and Language Program (PSL)

Open doors to communication, connection and confidence

One in 10 children need help to improve their speech and language skills. Without help, children may find it harder to listen, talk, read and play with others. The Preschool Speech and Language Program was created to help ensure preschool-aged children have the opportunity to reach their full communication potential, supporting their success in school and later in life.

Who we support

Pre-school children who are experiencing speech and language difficulties or other concerns related to their communication development.

What to expect

Registration

Surrey Place works with partner agencies to deliver Preschool Speech and Language services across the City of Toronto. After you submit the online registration form, your child’s file will be assigned to a PSL service provider. Your child’s name will be placed on a waitlist, and the service provider will contact you when they are ready to schedule an assessment.

It is important to know that if your child will be attending full-day kindergarten in the same year they are registered with the Preschool Speech and Language Program, the date of registration will determine the type of service they are eligible to receive before school entry.

• Registrations received by March 31: Your child may receive an assessment, intervention, and support with the transition to school.

• Registrations received by May 31: Your child may receive an assessment and support with the transition to school.

For children who are eligible to attend full-day kindergarten, all clinical services through the Preschool Speech and Language Program must end by August 31.

If your child is attending school, please speak with your child’s teacher or the school principal about any speech and language concerns you may have.

Assessment

Services begin with an initial assessment from a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). During the assessment, the SLP will learn more about your child’s communication skills by talking with you, using formal assessment tools (if appropriate), and observing or interacting with your child through play. After the assessment, the SLP will review the results with you, talk about your child’s strengths and needs, and work with you to decide on goals and next steps for support

Ongoing care

After the assessment, ongoing care may include different types of support based on your child’s needs and goals. This could include parent/caregiver training, intervention, consultation, and home programming with strategies to practice during everyday routines. A final speech-language assessment is completed before JK entry, and with your consent, the report is shared with the school board. This helps school staff understand your child’s communication needs and plan appropriate support.

Try our communication checklist

This checklist can be used from birth to age four to help you decide if your child needs help with their speech and language development. Checklists are available in 22 different languages.

Get your checklist

Ways to support your child’s communication development

Create a stimulating speech and language environment at home using simple, everyday strategies like taking turns and following your child’s lead. Strategies are available in 12 different languages.

Discover practical ways to support your child’s communication skills