Monitoring your child’s speech and language development is key to ensuring they’re on track to hit important milestones. While children progress at their own pace, knowing when to be concerned can help you seek timely interventions, such as speech therapy.
Understanding Speech-Language Milestones and your Child's Development
Speech-language milestones provide a framework for the typical development of communication skills. These benchmarks include babbling by 12 months, saying first words by 18 months, and forming two-word sentences by age 2. Deviating significantly from these milestones could indicate a need for further evaluation.
Learn more about NIH’s Speech-Language Milestones.
When to Seek Help
It’s important to recognize when speech delays might signal a larger issue. Red flags include:
Not babbling or making sounds by 12 months
No single words by 18 months
Difficulty following simple directions by age 2
If you observe these signs, a speech-language pathologist can assess your child’s development and create a therapy plan.
Discover more about CASRF’s speech evaluation services.
Common Speech Disorders That Cause Delays
Delays in speech can result from conditions such as:
Articulation Disorders:
Difficulty making certain sounds
Language Disorders:
Challenges in understanding or using words
Fluency Disorders (Stuttering):
Interruptions in speech flow
Early diagnosis and therapy can help children overcome these challenges and develop effective communication skills.
For a detailed guide on speech disorders, visit ASHA’s Speech and Language Development Guidelines.
Conclusion
Understanding when to seek help is crucial for ensuring your child’s speech development is on track. If you're noticing delays or red flags, early intervention can make a significant difference in helping your child overcome speech and language barriers.
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