First Words

Welcome to the First Words Preschool Speech and Language Program of Ottawa!

The first years of life are very important for learning speech and language. From the time they are born, children 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 your child’s future success in school and in life.

First Words is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Children and Youth 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 families with children from birth until they are eligible for Senior Kindergarten.

The First Words Preschool Speech and Language Program is an integrated partnership between Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre, and the following agencies: CHEO, OCTC, Andrew Fleck Child Care Services, Ottawa Public Health and Pinecrest-Queensway Community Health Centre.