Parents facing long wait times to see a speech-language pathologist have a new option.  Speech-Check.com offers parents online information to help them decide if their child may have a speech or language delay. 

Parents facing long wait lists for speech-language assessments now have a new option.  Speech-Check.com, a Canadian based company, offers parents online information designed to help them decide if their child needs to see a professional for a complete evaluation. 

Families often wait 6 months or more to see a Speech-Language Pathologist.   These long wait times can prevent parents from seeking help and cause potentially harmful delay and frustration for families that should be receiving help sooner.   

Both the American and Canadian Speech-Language Pathology Associations promote early intervention as the best possible outcome for children in need. ASHA, The American Speech-Language Hearing Association, estimates that
8 to 9% of children in the United States have a speech sound disorder.  Delays in communication can lead to problems with early learning and socialization and latter problems in school with reading and writing.     

Garth Schindel the Speech-Language Pathologist behind Speech-Check, wanted to find a way to provide parents with the information they need to make informed decisions regarding the need for further services.  When parents find out that their child’s development is age appropriate they are relieved and often don’t need to see a professional.  When they find out that there may be a delay they can seek services sooner and be better advocates to have their child seen as soon as possible.        

Innovative options such as online resources provide parents with important information.  Speech and language delays need to be identified as soon as possible for children to receive the help that they need.  Parents need to take an active role in seeking early intervention.