Family and Children's Services of Waterloo Region

200 Ardelt Ave                                     168 Hespeler Rd                           The Family Centre
Kitchener, ON N2C 2L9                         Cambridge, ON N1R 6V7              65 Hanson Avenue
Phone: 519-576-0540                            Phone: 519-623-6970                    Kitchener, N2C 2H6
Website: www.facswaterloo.org                                                                Website: www.thefamilycentre.ca

What is Family and Children's Services of the Waterloo Region's role in early literacy?

• We support families and caregivers of children at risk of harm or have been harmed through abuse or neglect
• Our organization provides programs, in home support, developmental assessments, and supports early literacy through a variety of programs and resources.
  

Who do we serve (our target population)?

• Families/cargivers with children 0-16 yrs at risk of harm or have been harmed through abuse or neglect

Where can you find us?

• Four locations (see two above)
• 65 Hanson Ave, Kitchener, ON, 519-576-0540 ext 3299
• 887 Langs Dr Unit 6, Cambridge, ON 519-623-6970 ext 2525

How do we provide early literacy support for families/caregivers?

• Literacy displays and information on site at family visiting centres
• Books for all ages are available as well as parenting resources
• Information provided about the value of reading with your child
• Tutoring and Incredible Kids Program for school-aged children
• Preschool Support Program assists parents of children 0-5 yrs: screens children at risk of developmental delay, helps families access subsidized child care, obtain placement in an Early Learning and Child Care Program, access Special needs Resourcing agencies, provides information on developmental milestones in all domains
  
• Home-based parent support programs providing one-on-one parenting information through print and video, information about communication milestones, and links to literacy services
• Family Support programs for parents and their children living at home or in the care of the agency
• Partner with community agencies and Ontario Early Years Centre to co-facilitate childrens' and parents programs
• PAL program for children 3-5 yrs, visit by speech-language pathologist to observe children and speak to parents
• Terrific Toddlers: make the connection 1 and 2
  

How do we provide early literacy support for service providers?

• Not available at this time