Target Word
This program was specifically designed for groups of parents of children under the age of 30 months who are using few words, or who by the age of 24 months, are not using several two-word combinations. These children understand what they are told, have good play and turn-taking skills and have no trouble learning everyday routines. But when it comes to using words, their vocabulary is limited.
A child is considered a late talker if he or she:
- Is between 18-20 months and has a vocabulary of less than 24 words OR
- Is between 21-24 months and has a vocabulary of less than 40 words OR
- Is between 24-30 months and has a vocabulary of less than 100 words OR
- Has limited word combinations by 24 months AND
- Has good skills in other areas of development (understanding, play, social, motor, thinking) AND
- Has some risk factors such as limited use of gestures, speech sounds or a family history of language delay.
Capable Kids offers a flexible delivery of the Target Word program, where parents can attend five informative, interactive sessions online, and then two individual parent-child interaction sessions with the Speech Pathologist either in the clinic or online. The program will teach parents ways to naturally create learning opportunities during every day routines and activities. You will learn:
- How to respond when your child communicates without using words.
- How to turn everyday activities into opportunities for language-learning.
- How to introduce new words and ideas into playtime and other activities.
- How to join in your child’s play and favourite activities in ways that help your child to use new words.
- How to set up activities so that your child can learn new words.
The Target Word programme will be offered to eligible families who are on our waiting list to allow them to access services while they wait for individual therapy placements.
