Know the Signs of a Speech or
Language Disorder
Speech disorders refer to conditions in which a child has problems creating or forming speech sounds needed to communicate with others. With early detection and intervention, many communication disorders can be identified, treated, reversed, or prevented. The first step is to stay aware and attuned to your child – as a parent, if you notice a behavior or get a feeling that something is off or unusual – pay attention, don’t doubt yourself. The fact is, early intervention can prevent or reverse a communication disorder. Get a correct diagnosis. A speech and language therapist is critical in the treatment of language disorders. They educate parents by helping them to identify problems early on. The therapist will spend one on one time with your child in language and therapy sessions. The therapist will also work with parents to help them include spoken language into daily activities and play. Photo by Prince Prints
Signs of a Speech or Language Disorder • Does not smile or interact with others (birth and older) • Does not babble (4-7 months) • Makes only a few sounds or gestures, like pointing (7-12 months) • Does not follow or understand what you or others say (7 months-2 years) • Says only a few sounds, words, or gestures (1218 months) • Says less than 50 words (2 years) when the average is 50 to 300 words • Words are not easily understood (18 months-2 years) • Does not combine or put words together to make sentences (1.5-3 years) • Has trouble playing and talking with other children (2-3 years) • Has trouble with early reading and writing skills (2.5-3 years) • Says p, b, m, h, and w incorrectly in words (1-2 years) • Says k, g, f, t, d, and n incorrectly in words (2-3 years) • Produces speech that is unclear (2-3 years) • Struggles to say sounds or words (3-4 years)
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