Kootenay Boundary

Infant Development Program: The Infant Development Program (IDP) serves children from birth to three years of age who have a developmental delay or disability or are at risk for a developmental delay. The program is voluntary, free of charge, and family-centered. To qualify for service, the child must reside within our catchment area (Greater Trail, Salmo, Castlegar, Slocan Valley, Nakusp, Kaslo, Nelson), and the child’s parent/caregiver must consent to referral and service. Through home visiting, our skilled Infant Development Consultants provide information on typical and atypical child development, developmental screenings and assessments, information on community resources, coordination of services with other community partners/service providers, prevention of plagiocephaly, sleep hygiene, prematurity, disability, Circle of Security Parenting Series, Infant Massage, support in learning more about your child’s growth, development and behaviour between birth and three years.

Supported Child Development Program: The SCDP is a community-based, family-centred child development program that is grounded in the belief that inclusion is the most important principle in supporting children to participate actively in a full range of programs. This program is for children from birth to 12 years of age who have a developmental delay or disability and require extra support to be included in a childcare setting. Families can self-refer to this free, voluntary program or give their consent for other service providers to refer their child. The Supported Child Development Program offers assistance in finding programs that meet families needs, working with parents and community care providers to determine what support is needed, support in child care and other community settings to develop and implement inclusive philosophies, practices & policies, support community capacity building, information, resources, suggestions and strategies, help with Kindergarten transitions.

Physiotherapy Program: The Kootenay Family Place Physiotherapist assesses and provides strategies for children (0-5) with developmental delays, neurological, musculoskeletal, and growth-related conditions. Assessments and interventions are play-based and include fun games and activities to promote certain postures, strength, movements, and skills. The goal is to assess development early to encourage optimal growth and development. Any person directly connected to the child is able to refer. If the referral source is not the caregiver, then verbal or written consent is needed before submitting.

Occupational Therapy (OT) Program: Children (0-5) may be seen at Kootenay Family Place, at home, or at their childcare center. The Occupational Therapist will educate and support families/caregivers to help them facilitate the development of the children’s skills outside of the therapy sessions. Any person directly connected to the child is able to refer. If the referral source is not the caregiver, then verbal or written consent is needed before submitting.

Speech & Language Pathology Program: Pediatric SLPs work with children (0-5) and their families on a wide variety of communication skills. Speech therapy sessions happen at home, the clinic or preschool/daycare, depending on the needs of the child. The goal is to identify and treat communication difficulties so that children can be active participants in their lives. Therapy is play-based and focuses on fun and interaction with the SLP and parents.