Written by Team TE
What to Do if Your Child Isn't Pointing, Waving, or Giving You Objects When Asked
Content by: Team TE| Therapeutic Endeavors Intern
As parents, one of the most exciting milestones in a child’s early years is hearing their first words and watching them start to form simple sentences. It’s a moment many of us eagerly anticipate. However, it’s important to recognize that not all children develop speech and language skills at the same pace.
Signs Your Child Needs Speech Therapy
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Limited Vocabulary
By age two, toddlers should know at least 50 words and start combining them into phrases. A significantly smaller vocabulary may indicate a delay. - Difficulty Understanding Instructions
If your child struggles to follow simple commands like “Pick up your toy,” it could signal language comprehension issues. -
Unclear Speech
While mispronunciations are normal, speech should become clearer by age three. If not, speech therapy may help. -
Lack of Gestures
If your child rarely uses gestures like pointing or waving, it might indicate a language delay. -
Limited Social Interaction
Avoidance of interaction, eye contact issues, or disinterest in social activities can suggest communication challenges. -
Trouble Combining Words
By 24-30 months, toddlers should start using two- to three-word phrases. If they don’t, it could signal a delay. -
Frustration with Communication
Toddlers may become frustrated or throw tantrums if they cannot express themselves clearly. -
Repetitive Speech
If your child repeats words or phrases without meaning, it may be a sign to consult a speech therapist. -
Lack of Interest in Conversations
A disinterest in storytelling or conversations could be a red flag for language delays. -
Regression in Speech
If a child loses words or communication skills they previously had, it could point to a speech or developmental disorder.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If your toddler is showing any of these signs, it’s important to act promptly and not wait for them to “catch up” on their own. Early intervention plays a critical role in addressing speech delays and helping children overcome them. Here are some steps you can take:
Consult a Pediatrician: Share your concerns with your child’s pediatrician, who can provide insight into their development and refer you to a speech-language pathologist (SLP) if needed.
Schedule a Speech Evaluation: A speech-language pathologist can assess your child’s communication skills and determine if speech therapy is necessary.
Engage in Language-Rich Activities: Be proactive in fostering your child’s language development by reading books, singing songs, and talking to them frequently. The more words and language they hear, the better.
Encourage Play-Based Communication: Use toys, games, and interactive activities to encourage your child to express themselves and engage in conversation.
Be Patient and Supportive: Every child develops at their own pace, but providing consistent support and encouragement can make a big difference in their progress.
When speech delays are detected early, intervention can make a significant difference in helping a child catch up and improve their communication skills. This is why understanding the warning signs of potential speech delays is crucial. Early intervention can significantly boost your child’s speech and communication skills, helping them navigate challenges with confidence. If you have any concerns about your toddler’s speech development, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for guidance and support. With the right help, most children can make great strides in overcoming speech delays and thrive in their communication abilities.
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