Are you concerned about your child's speech and language development? Every child develops at their own pace, but there are specific milestones that indicate healthy speech and language progress. Identifying early signs of a possible speech and language disorder can make a significant difference in your child's education and social life.
Parenting is challenging, and we all strive to provide the best for our children. If you are feeling overwhelmed with this topic follow along for some insight. Below, we highlight key stages of development and signs to watch for at each age.
Infant/toddler:
For infants and toddlers, early signs of speech and language issues can be subtle but crucial to identify. A few concerns to note are:
My child is not talking or says fewer words than expected for their age.
My child is unusually quiet.
My child seems to ignore me or does not respond consistently to sounds or speech.
My child is easily frustrated when attempting to communicate with me.
I am worried about my child's communication.
Note: Any concerns about your infant or toddler's early speech and language skills should first be discussed with your child's pediatrician. The pediatrician can ensure that your child is hearing properly.
As children grow into preschoolers, their speech and language skills should become more advanced.
Preschooler:
Here are some signs that your preschooler could benefit from a speech and language evaluation.
My child does not talk as much as other children their age.
My child does not use a variety of words or combinations of words and phrases.
My child has trouble asking or answering questions.
My child is stuttering.
I have difficulty understanding what my child is saying.
My child is not able to follow multi-step directions.
As children reach school-age their speech and language skills continue to increase in complexity.
School-aged:
A school-aged child has more developed speech and language skills with many facets. Here are a few things to look out for in your kiddo!
Speech Evaluation: My child has difficulty producing sounds or being understood by others.
Language Evaluation: My child understands or uses language differently from other children.
Fluency Evaluation: My child stutters.
Reading Evaluation: My child is having difficulty reading and I wonder if they may be dyslexic.
It can be scary as a parent to have concerns about your child's development, but recognizing those early signs of a speech and language delay is the first step in getting help for your child. Taking steps toward early intervention can provide your child with the support they need to thrive in their speech and language skills. If you notice any of the concerns mentioned above, do not hesitate to seek professional advice. All children grow at their own pace, and seeking help is a proactive step towards ensuring their success.
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