Beyond Words Waterloo Speech and Language Services

07/11/2026

We had a wonderful three days at the Apraxia Kids Conference in Pittsburgh, learning from inspiring speakers and connecting with families, professionals, and individuals with Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). ⭐️

We’re grateful for the opportunity to continue expanding our knowledge, bringing back new ideas and evidence-based strategies to better support the children and families we serve. Continuous learning helps us provide the best possible care, and we’re excited to put what we’ve learned into practice!

05/14/2026

This is such a wonderful opportunity for parents to attend the conference for the first time. Please let us know if you are interested in applying!

Are you a parent/caregiver of an Apraxia Star who has NOT previously attended an Apraxia Kids National Conference? We have something exciting for YOU!

Thanks to a generous donation from a member of our community, we are providing special “Hope Tickets” to First-Time Parent/Caregiver attendees so more families can find the hope this donor found from attending an in-person Apraxia Kids National Conference.

Hope Ticket applications are open now through May 31st. Learn more and apply here: https://www.apraxia-kids.org/apraxia-kids-national-conference-hope-tickets/

We are so grateful for the support of this donor so we can support more families with CAS and share this life-changing conference with everyone!

05/14/2026

Today is Apraxia Awareness Day!

Apraxia can make speaking incredibly challenging, but it does not define a child’s intelligence, personality, or potential.

Every sound, every word, and every breakthrough represents hard work worth celebrating.

Awareness helps create understanding, and understanding helps every child feel heard, included, and empowered. 💫

05/11/2026

Speech, language, and communication are connected - but they are not the same thing.

Understanding the difference can help parents and caregivers better understand what a child may be working on in therapy and how to support them at home.

👄 SPEECH = how we SAY sounds and words
💬 LANGUAGE = how we UNDERSTAND and USE words/ideas
👥 COMMUNICATION = how we SHARE messages with others

A child can have difficulty in one area, or across multiple areas.

For example:
• A child may know exactly what they want to say, but have difficulty producing sounds clearly (speech).
• A child may speak clearly, but have trouble understanding directions or putting sentences together (language).
• A child may use gestures, AAC, facial expressions, words, or sounds to communicate their message (communication).

Every child communicates differently. All forms of communication matter. 💛

05/01/2026

May is Speech and Hearing Month!

At Beyond Words,, we’re proud to support children in finding their voice, strengthening communication, and connecting with the world around them. Communication is more than words; it’s how we express ourselves, build relationships, and participate fully in daily life.

This month, we celebrate the importance of speech, language, and hearing health, and recognize the impact that early support and ongoing care can make.

If you have questions or concerns about your child's communication, we’re here to help.

Let’s raise awareness and celebrate every voice this May. 💙

04/10/2026

🎬 Sensory-Friendly Movie Screenings (Now Showing Locally!)

Looking for a more comfortable movie experience? Landmark Cinemas offers sensory-friendly screenings right here in Waterloo 💛

✨ What to expect:
• Lights stay dim (not fully dark)
• Lowered volume
• Move around, switch seats, or take breaks
• Bring assistive devices + your own snacks
• A welcoming, judgment-free space

🎥 Perfect for children who may find traditional theatres overwhelming, including those with sensory sensitivities, autism, or anxiety.
🗓 Typically offered once a month (morning showtimes)
🎟 Reduced “Morning Movies” pricing available

👀 Look for showtimes labeled Sensory-Friendly Films when booking. Titles and dates change throughout the year.

Because every family deserves to enjoy the movies in a way that works for them 🍿

📍 Check the link in our bio for upcoming showtimes and films!

04/06/2026

World Autism Awareness Month is an opportunity to move beyond general awareness and toward deeper understanding.

Autism is not one-size-fits-all. Every autistic person has their own strengths, challenges, communication style, and way of experiencing the world.

Listening to autistic voices, respecting individual needs, and creating supportive environments are key steps toward meaningful inclusion.

This month, and every month, we continue learning, adapting, and making space for all ways of communicating and being.

03/23/2026

SAVE THE DATE!

Colleen Cares Foundation is hosting Prom of PossABILITIES on June 13, 2026!
This event is designed for teens and young adults with disabilities who have accessibility or social barriers for their own school events.

Come meet your friends or make new ones for an evening of music, dancing, photo booth and prom night fun!

This will be FREE event for our community, but registration is required, all youth under 18 must be accompanied by a caregiver.

03/16/2026

Celebrating Minds of All Kinds 🧠✨

For many years, the focus was on awareness. Today, we’re working toward something more: celebration, acceptance, and true inclusion.

Neurodiversity reminds us that there is no single “right” way for a brain to think, learn, or communicate. Different minds bring different strengths, perspectives, and ideas.

This week we celebrate the value of all kinds of minds, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone belongs.

03/16/2026

✳️ March Break looks a little different here!
Can't remember if your child has a session? 🗓
👉 Check your Jane account to confirm or book (login link is in our bio)