The Quebec Association for Dysphasic (congenital aphasia) Children, founded in 1986 by parents of dysphasic children, has endeavored to promote a better understanding of this disorder and to promote services to help these children and their parents at all levels. A French study by Dr. Anne Van Hout in 1989 reports that 5 to 20% of preschool and school-age children can be affected by dysphasia. Dysphasia results from cerebral dysfunction (language area) resulting in limitations in receptive and expressive language, to the point of preventing the child from communicating normally and accomplishing age-appropriate activities. Their educational integration is also disturbed.

The Quebec Society for Autism, founded in 1976 by parents of children with autism, defends the rights and interests of autistic persons and their families. Approximately 10, 000 persons in Quebec present symptoms to varying degrees: perturbed social development - difficulty communicating-stereotypical mannerisms - and if not treated, behavior problems. Autism generally manifests itself early, during the first 30 months of life. 

In both of these communication disorders, diagnosis and early stimulation are determining factors for the futures of affected children. The earlier that intervention is done, the better the chances are of rehabilitation. Both associations are working to obtain front-line services in order to allow quick referrals to appropriate resources.

Unfortunately, waiting lists are lengthy in hospitals and readaptation centers, resulting in the developpment of a severe permanant handicap. The services offered to persons with dysphasia and autism are insufficient, incomplete and far from adequate, resulting in social exclusion.

The Quebec Association for Dysphasic Children and the Quebec Society for Autism claim the right for persons suffering from a severe communication disorder to have access to the best level of social autonomy possible, the right to a life of dignity, to education, to rehabilitation, to all useful therapy which can compensate for the deficits associated with the handicap.