Speech and Language

Welcome to the First Words Ottawa & Renfrew County Preschool Speech and Language Program!

The first years of life are very important for learning speech and language. From the time children are born, they start communicating. Very early in their lives, they learn to understand what you are saying and to make sounds of their own. Eventually, these sounds and babbling will turn into words. These are the initial milestones in the development of speech and language skills. Communication skills are critical to a child’s future success in school and in life.

Did you know?

First Words is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services and all services are offered at no charge to families. Similar programs exist across the province of Ontario. We offer support and services to Ottawa and Renfrew County families with children from birth until they are eligible for Junior Kindergarten. 

First Words Project

The 16 by 16™ series is designed to help families and others learn the critical social communication skills that children should reach by 16 months in order to launch language learning, literacy, and much more by 24 months.
Visit First Words Project Website

Integrated Partnership

The First Words Preschool Speech and Language Program is an integrated partnership between
Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, and the following agencies: