Language Delay Therapy in Calgary
Helping children build strong language skills to communicate with confidence.
When Language Development Feels Stuck
Every child learns to talk and understand language at their own pace — but when milestones seem delayed, it’s natural to wonder why.
​
At True North SLP, we help children who have a hard time following directions, use short sentences, or struggle to express or understand ideas. Our speech-language pathologists use playful, evidence-based strategies to help your child communicate more clearly and confidently at home, school, and in daily life.
What is a Language Delay?
A language delay occurs when a child develops language skills later or more slowly than expected for their age.
This can include:
-
Limited vocabulary for their age
-
Short or incomplete sentences
-
Difficulty following directions or answering questions
-
Trouble sharing ideas or telling stories
​
Some children have challenges understanding words (receptive language), while others have trouble expressing themselves (expressive language) — and many experience a mix of both.
Language skills form the foundation for learning, friendships, and emotional regulation.
When children receive early support, they’re better able to:
-
Build strong vocabulary and grammar
-
Communicate wants, needs, and ideas
-
Develop reading and writing readiness
-
Participate more fully in school and play
​
Early intervention makes a lasting difference — and therapy is designed to feel fun, natural, and achievable.
Why Early Support Matters
How Speech Therapy Helps
Our Calgary-based speech-language pathologists use evidence-based approaches to strengthen both understanding and expression.
Therapy may include:
-
Vocabulary building through books, songs, and play
-
Expanding sentence length and structure
-
Strengthening comprehension and following directions
-
Storytelling and conversation practice
-
Parent coaching for everyday language growth
​
We tailor each session to your child’s interests and learning style so communication feels meaningful and motivating.
Our Approach
At True North SLP, we believe progress happens through connection, not pressure.
Our therapy is:
-
Play-based: Kids learn best when they’re having fun
-
Family-centered: Parents are partners in the process
-
Practical: Strategies are built into daily routines
-
Flexible: Sessions available in-home, school-based, or in the community
​
We support children with language delays, late talking, and developmental language disorders using proven, responsive approaches that meet each child where they’re at.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the difference between a language delay and a speech delay?
A: A language delay affects how a child understands and uses words to communicate. A speech delay affects how they make the sounds in words. Many children experience both, and an SLP can help identify the difference.
Q2: How do I know if my child has a language delay?
A: If your child uses fewer words or shorter sentences than peers, has trouble following directions, or struggles to express ideas, a speech-language assessment can help.
​
Q3: Can my child catch up with therapy?
A: Yes! With consistent support, most children make strong progress and develop the skills they need to communicate effectively.
​
Q4: What age should I start therapy?
A: It’s never too early. Early intervention (even before age three) helps children develop strong language foundations for later learning and social success.
Q5: What does a typical session look like?
A: Therapy sessions include play, books, songs, and conversation, along with parent coaching so you can support language growth between sessions.
Q6: Is therapy covered by insurance?
A: Most insurance plans cover speech-language therapy. We are not able to direct bill insurance but we are able to provide detailed receipts to support with reimbursement. Each insurance plan is unique and we encourage you to ask your provider what SLP coverage is available for your child.
Getting Started is Easy...
At True North SLP, we are here to guide and support your child’s journey to confident communication.
Let’s go on this journey together!
1
Complete our Online Intake Form
​Share information about your child and your primary goals.
We aim to respond to your speech therapy request within 1-2 business days.
2
Get connected with an SLP
Discuss with a speech therapist during a free 15-minute consultation what you hope to achieve through therapy sessions and gain insights into how we can help.
3
Start Speech Therapy
Begin personalized speech therapy sessions in your home that support your child's unique communication needs.