speech delay

Speech Language Theraphy

A speech and language delay is when a child isn’t developing speech and language at an expected rate. It is a common developmental problem that affects as many as 10% of preschool children.

Symptoms of a speech and language delay

•   Say simple words (such as “mama”) either clearly or unclearly by 12 to 15 months of age.
•   Understand simple words (such as “no” or “stop”) by 18 months of age.
•   Talk in short sentences by 3 years of age.
•   Tell a simple story at 4 to 5 years of age.

What causes a speech and language delay?

•   hearing loss
•   slow development
•   mental retardation.
•   Psychosocial deprivation (the child doesn’t spend enough time talking with adults).
•   Being a twin.
•   Autism (a developmental disorder).
•   Elective mutism (the child just doesn’t want to talk).
•   Cerebral palsy (a movement disorder caused by brain damage).

Speech and language delay treatment

Your child may not need any treatment. Some children just take more time to start talking. The way your doctor might treat your child depends on the cause of the speech delay. Your doctor will tell you the cause of your child’s problem and explain any treatments that might fix the problem or make it better.

A speech and language pathologist might be helpful in making treatment plans. This person can show you how to help your child talk more and speak better, and also can teach your child how to listen or how to lip read.