Niagara County Launches Free 8-Week Speech & Language Program to Address Gaps in Early Childhood Services

The Niagara County Department of Health is proud to announce the launch of Happy Talk Song and Sign, a free 8-week speech and language development class designed to support young children and their caregivers. This innovative initiative directly addresses a critical need identified by Niagara County families for early communication support.

The Happy Talk Song and Sign program begins on Monday, July 7, 2025, and will run for eight consecutive Mondays from 10:00–11:00 AM, concluding on Monday, August 25, 2025.  All sessions will be held at the Lewiston Public Library, 308 S. 8th Street, Lewiston, NY 14092.

Led by licensed Speech-Language Pathologist Kourtney Gerstung, Happy Talk Song and Sign was created in direct response to concerns from parents and caregivers throughout Niagara County. Many expressed that children not meeting eligibility for formal early intervention services were left without proactive support for speech and language development.

“We’ve heard loud and clear from families that there was a lack of structured support to proactively address speech and language development,” said Janice Jenosheck, Early Intervention Official and Director of Children with Special Needs for Niagara County. “This program is a direct response to that need, to give parents tools, guidance and meaningful opportunities to support their child’s communication skills.”

Happy Talk Song and Sign aims to bridge this gap by offering fun, engaging, and developmentally supportive programming. The curriculum creatively incorporates music, movement, and basic sign language, fostering early communication skills in a playful group setting that benefits both children and their caregivers.

To improve access for all families, the program is designed to rotate across various communities throughout Niagara County in upcoming sessions. Updated class schedules and locations will be promptly shared on the Niagara County Department of Health Children with Special Needs website at https://www.niagaracounty.gov/departments/a-f/children_with_special_needs/happy_talk_song_and_sign.php.

In addition to the weekly classes, the final two weeks of each session will offer caregivers a crucial opportunity to complete a free developmental screening. This provides valuable insight into their child’s growth and helps identify any areas that may need further attention, ensuring children receive support if and when needed.

“This initiative is about equity, access, and empowering families,” emphasized Public Health Director Daniel J. Stapleton. “Every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and we’re meeting families where they are — both geographically and developmentally.”

Registration is appreciated but not required. For more information about the Happy Talk Song and Sign program or to register, please contact Janice Jenosheck at 716-278-1991.