SoundStart is the preschool speech and language program for children birth to 5 years of age in Sarnia/Lambton. Services are funded by the Government of Ontario and are provided at no charge to families.

SoundStart is led through Pathways Health Centre for Children.

The goal of SoundStart is to recognize and help children with speech and language needs as early as possible.

SoundStart offers…

• One number to call for service in Sarnia/Lambton
• Free community drop-ins for information sharing
• Hands-on training for parents, guardians, and other caregivers
• Assessment and a range of services to suit the needs of the child and family
• Planning for transition to school-based services.

SoundStart currently accepts referrals for children until January 31st of the year before they are eligible to attend Grade 1. Children beyond this age should be referred for school-based services through their teacher.

Important Notice

Caregivers, parents and partners are encouraged to call SoundStart at (519) 542-2074 or 1-855-542-3471 to book an appointment for a speech-language assessment. These assessments will be arranged when possible within three months from referral. Assessments will take place throughout Sarnia-Lambton at Best Start Hubs and at Pathways Health Centre for Children.

As Pathways Health Centre for Children is the lead agency for SoundStart, children who have been referred to Pathways for speech/language services will be contacted and an assessment will be booked, when possible within three months of referral.

Families who do not wish to book an assessment, but just have some questions, are welcomed to attend SoundStart "drop-ins".