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Part of Parenting

Creating language-rich environments

Parents and professionals can use the Talk Box resources for ideas and activities that encourage language development for children.

Talk Box

Children learn language every day. Parents, caregivers and professionals play an important role in children’s speech and language development. The Talk Box resources can help you teach and encourage children to develop good language skills.

Talk Box was created by speech-language professionals. It has everyday tips, information about what to expect in speech and language development, and information on when and where to get help.

Talk Box consists of information for preschool children, from birth to 5 years old, and for school-aged children from 5 to 12 years. You will find introductory information, checklists, guides, and ideas for activities.

If you have concerns about your child’s language development, discuss this with your health care provider. You can also call Alberta Health Services, Preschool Speech Language Services in Calgary and area at 403-955-1300, or in Edmonton and area at 780-408-8793.

Talking is Key

“Talking is Key” explains how children from 3 months to 5 years old learn language and gives tips for parents to encourage language learning. Parents can help their children become good communicators, even if learning to speak in more than one language. The word “key” means “important.”

The "Talking is Key" and introduction videos are available in English and 11 other languages: French, Amharic, Arabic, Cantonese, Cree, Dinka, Farsi, Mandarin, Punjabi, Spanish and Tagalog.

Watch the "Talking is Key" videos

If you have questions about your child’s speech development, in Alberta call HealthLink at 811.

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