The Reasons and Causes of Speech Delays in Toddlers
As parents, we always want our children to have the best possible start in life. However, some kids face hurdles regarding language and communication skills that can affect their socialization and learning experience. If you are concerned about your child's delayed speech development, understand that speech delays in kids are common. In fact, nearly 1 in 12 American children between the ages of 3 to 17 have a disorder related to voice, speech, language, or swallowing, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD).
The compassionate speech-language pathologists at Linguabilities are equipped to address speech disorders, including speech delays in kids. We’re a telepractice providing first-rate and affordable virtual speech therapy sessions for children and adults. This article discusses speech delays in kids and how speech therapy can help.
What is Speech and Language Delay?
Language and speech delays in kids occur when children do not meet common milestones for speech and language development. This can include problems with producing sounds, using words, and putting words together to make sentences.
Most delays are not a cause for concern. Often, they are simply due to being a late bloomer or a difference in learning style. However, if you are concerned about your child's speech or language development, please talk to your pediatrician or another medical professional.
What are the Reasons of Speech Delays in toddlers?
Most children begin babbling between 6 and 9 months of age. By 12 to 15 months, most will say at least one word. By 18 months, most children will be saying several words and beginning to put them together in simple phrases. By 2 years old, most children will be speaking in short sentences and can follow simple instructions. A child may have a speech and language delay if they do not meet these milestones.
What are the Causes of Speech Delays in Toddlers?
There are many possible causes of speech delays in toddlers. In some cases, the cause is unknown. However, several possible explanations exist for why a child might experience speech or language impairments.
One possibility is that the child has hearing loss. This can make it difficult for them to learn how to speak because they cannot hear the sounds of speech correctly. Another cause is the child's motor impairment, making it difficult to correctly produce speech sounds. Additionally, children with cognitive impairments or developmental disabilities may also have difficulty acquiring speech and language skills.
When is Speech Therapy Needed?
If your child might benefit from speech therapy, the first step is to consult with your pediatrician. If your pediatrician agrees, they will likely refer you to a speech-language pathologist (SLP).
To help your child to overcome speech delay, the speech-language pathologist may
Encourage your child to practice all speech sounds and word formation. Your child may be able to create the sounds more effortlessly as a result.
Help your child understand the meaning of words and different types of sentences.
Help your child communicate in various settings by helping them to understand social cues.
And more.
Speech Therapy for Kids Available Online
At Linguabilities, our team comprises highly qualified and experienced speech-language pathologists committed to helping children and adults overcome their speech disorders. We offer online speech therapy so you and your child can join us from the comfort of your home. Schedule a free call with us today.