Speech and language delays

Speech and language difficulties are estimated to occur in about 6% of children.¹ Mild and temporary speech delays can occur in some children. And some children learn new words faster than others do. But if your child is not saying words by 18 months, or can say fewer than 50 words by 24 months, talk to your doctor. All children with a speech delay should have their hearing tested.

Keep in mind that many different factors determine a child's speech development. Be aware of the common misconceptions about what causes speech and language delays, such as laziness or developmental differences between boys and girls. Even if some of these factors contribute to a child's speaking slightly later than others of the same age, they are not the cause of significant speech delays. True delays are related to developmental or health issues, such as hearing loss or a family history of speech and language delay.

Red flags for speech and language developmental delays are generally based on established speech and language milestones. Talk to your health professional any time you have concerns. It is critical to identify speech and language delays early and rule out any underlying conditions, such as difficulty hearing. Early diagnosis allows health professionals to recommend treatments that can help prevent long-term problems.

Behavioral issues

While they learn and master new language skills, children sometimes talk in ways that are demanding or impolite. For example, a child may say "Give me!" when he or she wants a toy. Often this seemingly bad behavior is the result of children's inability to find the words that fit their feelings, or they are simply repeating what is being said around them. Gently remind your child to use an appropriate voice and manners, and consistently model polite speech and behavior.

Some parents think that their child is constantly talking or chattering. This is a child's way of practicing. It is not necessary for parents to listen and respond to everything a talkative child says, but don't completely tune out your chatterer either. Singing and dancing with your child and playing music or reading stories geared toward children will help your child learn to listen and to express himself or herself.

Normal mistakes

Most children make developmentally appropriate "mistakes" when they first learn to talk. For example, children commonly mispronounce words, such as saying "pasghetti" for "spaghetti." As children listen to other people, they often correct their mistakes. They learn to say words clearly and use grammar correctly through practice.