Why intervene early?
The early years are important for your child's development. Every time your toddler learns something, billions of connections are formed in their brain. Intervening early can have a greater impact on your child's development and life course.
As you play a central role of their world, you can observe their development on a daily basis. You are in a good position to detect possible signs of difficulties.
How to ask for help ?
If you have a concern about your child's development, you can reach the central phone reception at any time by calling 418-684-JEFF (5333)/1-888-984-5333, ext. 0. To contact the Community Services reception desk or to request services, call 418-684-JEFF (5333)/1-888-984-5333, ext. 11805, or use the form on the Contact Us page. Our hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Following the assessment of your needs, the worker will determine if the Agir tôt program is the right one to meet your needs
The 18-month vaccine appointment and Developmental monitoring
One of the strategies developed for the program is developmental monitoring at the child’s 18-month vaccination appointment. This service is offered free of charge and is available throughout the Capitale-Nationale region.
During the appointment, in addition to vaccinating your child, the attending staff at your local CLSC (local community services centre) can complete the ABCdaire 18 months+. To complete this developmental monitoring tool, you will be asked questions about your child’s overall development. Following the appointment, if difficulties have been identified, you will be directed, with your consent, to Agir tôt screening or another appropriate service.
To prepare for this appointment, we recommend that you:
- Watch the preparatory video;
- Observe your child during the activities you usually do together
- Use the checklist for help on what to look for.
Following the 18-month appointment, if concerns or difficulties are identified, you may be referred to other services within the Agir Tôt program or to other necessary resources to better address your needs.
In addition to the 18-month appointment, a document has been developed for you. It will allow you to make any observations of your child's evolution and the skills expected when they turn 2. We suggested that you discuss anything you have noticed with your doctor or healthcare professional at your next follow-up appointment.
Tools and resources
While all children are unique and develop at their own pace, some big developmental stages are essential.
Resources are available to guide you with these big stages in child development:
- Your child’s development, step by step / Dossier
- Québec Family Doctor Finder
- Gateway to recognized daycare spaces in Québec
- Stages of growth | From Tiny Tot to Toddler | INSPQ
Resources for getting professional advice
- Première ressource
514-525-2573 ou 1-866-329-4223
consultation@premiereressource.com
Free professional consultation service for parents of children aged 0-18, by phone, chat or email
Available in French and in English - Ligne parents
1-800-361-5085
Telephone support for parents of children aged 0-20.
Psychosocial counselling for parents and caregivers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Available in French and in English - Info-Santé 811
Health advice given by a nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Available in French and in English - Info-Social 811
Psychosocial advice given by a psychosocial worker 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Available in French and in English
Directories for finding community resources
- 211
Multilingual service that lists and directs to socio-community resources in the regions of Quebec - Fédération québécoise des organismes communautaires Famille (FQOCF) (in French only)
Directory to find family community organizations in the regions of Quebec