Direct answer
Hanen More Than Words is an evidence-based parent training program designed for caregivers of children under 5 with autism or social communication difficulties. Developed by the Hanen Centre in Toronto, the program runs 11 sessions plus 3 individual video coaching visits. Research by Carter et al. (2011) demonstrated improved parent responsiveness and child communication. In Ontario, More Than Words is offered through children's treatment centres and private SLPs at $300-600 for the full program.
Start with the short answer, then reveal deeper context where helpful.
More Than Words teaches parents research-based strategies to help their young autistic child communicate. The program covers: understanding how children communicate, creating communication opportunities, following the child's lead, using visual supports, and promoting social interaction during daily routines. Parents learn to identify their child's communication stage and adjust their interaction style accordingly.
The Hanen Centre, headquartered in Toronto, trains SLPs across Ontario to deliver More Than Words. Programs are available through: children's treatment centres (often free or low-cost), EarlyON Child and Family Centres, Preschool Speech and Language Programs, and private SLP practices. Wait times vary by provider, from 1-6 months.
More Than Words teaches parents research-based strategies to help their young autistic child communicate. The program covers: understanding how children communicate, creating communication opportunities, following the child's lead, using visual supports, and promoting social interaction during daily routines. Parents learn to identify their child's communication stage and adjust their interaction style accordingly.
The program uses a combination of group sessions (where parents learn strategies through discussion, video examples, and practice) and individual coaching visits (where a Hanen-certified SLP films the parent and child interacting, then provides personalized feedback). This blended format ensures strategies are tailored to each family's situation.
The Hanen Centre, headquartered in Toronto, trains SLPs across Ontario to deliver More Than Words. Programs are available through: children's treatment centres (often free or low-cost), EarlyON Child and Family Centres, Preschool Speech and Language Programs, and private SLP practices. Wait times vary by provider, from 1-6 months.
More Than Words is complementary to clinical therapies. Many families participate in Hanen programs while on the OAP core clinical waitlist, as the strategies immediately improve daily communication. The program may also be offered as an OAP foundational service in some regions. Contact your local children's treatment centre or Preschool Speech and Language Program to find upcoming sessions.
Research
Carter et al. (2011), "A Randomized Controlled Trial of Hanen's More Than Words in Toddlers with ASD," Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 52(7), 741-752
Hanen Centre
The Hanen Centre — More Than Words Program Overview and Provider Directory (2024)
OAP foundational services include caregiver-mediated early learning for families with young autistic children. Learn eligibility, what to expect, and how to access this program.
Overview of SLP approaches for autism: traditional articulation, AAC, social pragmatic, and PROMPT. Learn OAP coverage, costs, and how to choose.
Guide to NDBIs including ESDM, JASPER, and PRT for autistic children in Ontario. Covers evidence base, how NDBIs differ from discrete trial ABA, and OAP coverage.
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Written by Spencer Carroll
Founder & Autism Advocate