Red Deer Parents of Children with Speech Concerns

The reality is, there is no support for parents in Red Deer for children who have speech and language problems. There are resources to access, but there is no organization in place for parents to meet other parents.

What could the group look like? Perhaps:

- Learn more about the services available in our area.
- Invite experts to discuss various topics related to speech and language delays and disorders.
- Support for parents... a place to share, support and be supported.
- Discuss our experiences (good and bad) to help other parents make informed choices.
- Play dates for our children.
- Tips for Advocacy
- Etc, etc, etc...

This list is not exhaustive. In fact, I could personally list out about ten more things I think I could gain from a group like this, but I wanted to share where I thought we could focus the group. The beauty of it is that we can do whatever we like and shape the group so it fits our members best.

Anyone with an interest in learning more about speech delays and impairments. Any caregivers that would like to find a play group for their child. It really is available to anyone. As we develop more, we will evolve these types of things.

There is no set location at this point. Typically Non Profit groups are welcome at places like churches or community centers. Anywhere that is free and either in or on the outskirts of Red Deer, Alberta.

The following excerpt you are about to read is a script that was prepared by Lisa of the CHERAB Foundation. She devotes her time to helping parents become advocates for their children. She describes perfectly, what I am trying to do. A link to her sites are listed below.

"Many parents find it overwhelming when they have a child that is a late-talker. Is there a problem? Who should we see - a doctor, a pediatrician, a speech pathologist? Are we over-reacting? Do others notice that our child is not talking?

How many times have we heard: "Einstein didn't talk until he was five years old"? Or how about "he will talk when he is ready%u2026" or "she doesn't need to talk, you give her everything she wants".

Often these comments are from well-meaning family and or friends, who have no idea of the impact their comments have on you and even your child.

It is validating and helpful to be with others who know how you feel, and who really "get it". Speak to others in your area about where to go to get service, clinicians that have worked with children like yours, great and not so great programs and services.
You can bounce ideas of each other, share information, and even give your kids the opportunity to have a playdate with other kids who are like them.

A support group can be a couple of parents meeting with their kids at the local MacDonald's, a group of parents sitting around a kitchen table exchanging information and telephone numbers, or a more formal, regular meeting with a larger group of families and even guest speakers."

If this is something that would interest you, please contact me at maisiehoops@gmail.com

I really do look forward to hearing from you.