KidsAbility has a new tool for parents and caregivers in Waterloo Region and Wellington County who have concerns about their preschooler’s speech and language or development progress.
The Communications Checkup Tool is available for children aged six months to Junior Kindergarten. The online tool screens for areas of development based on a child’s current age, and includes: speech, language, fine and gross motor skills as well as social communication.
The tool tracks screenings at the following age milestones: six months, nine months, one year, 18 months, two years, 30 months, 3 years, 42 months, and four years. It is intended to track a child’s progress in their first language (i.e., the language they understand and use the most during the day).
Results are instant, following the completion of 40 online questions. Results provide families with answers to general questions as well as suggestions on next steps to support child development. Recommendations may include: another screening at a child’s next age milestone; a referral to Speech and Language Services at KidsAbility for an assessment; or a primary health care provider visit to discuss other development areas highlighted by the screening.
The Communication Checkup Tool takes approximately 15-30 minutes to complete. It must be completed in one sitting. The tool works best when using a Chrome or Microsoft Edge browser. Privacy is protected, and families have the option to complete the screening anonymously.