Parenting is full of surprises, but noticing that your little one isn't speaking as expected can leave you scratching your head (and Googling late at night). Speech delays are more common than you might think, and understanding them is the first step toward supporting your child's communication journey. So, let’s "talk the talk" about what a speech delay really is!
Signs to Keep an Ear Out For
Speech delays don’t mean your child isn’t trying their best. Typical signs might include limited babbling as an infant, difficulty forming simple words by age two, or struggling to combine words into short phrases by three. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), other indicators could include challenges with clarity, limited vocabulary, or difficulty following simple directions.
Think of your child’s speech development like a recipe — sometimes, one ingredient might be missing or added a little late. That’s where intervention comes in to "spice things up."
Why the Delay?
Speech delays can have various causes. Sometimes it's related to hearing issues, while in other cases, developmental disorders like autism or motor planning difficulties (such as childhood apraxia of speech) play a role. Environmental factors, such as a lack of exposure to language, can also contribute. Whatever the reason, knowing the "why" can help us shape the "how" of addressing it.
When to Seek Help
If your parental intuition is sounding the alarm, don’t hesitate to reach out to a speech-language pathologist (SLP). ASHA recommends early intervention, as catching delays early can lead to better long-term outcomes. Think of it like fixing a squeaky wheel — the sooner it’s addressed, the smoother the ride.
Why SaSS KC?
At Speech & Swallowing Specialists of KC, we provide tailored evaluations and therapy right in the comfort of your home. Our compassionate team understands that every child’s journey is unique, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. No judgment, just results — and maybe a little fun along the way.
Speech delays don’t have to be scary. Let’s make it a team effort to help your child find their voice, one word at a time. Ready to chat? Contact us today!
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