WebMD: Better Information. Better Health.
  • Bookmark This Page
  • Site Map
  • Sign up for WebMD Newsletters
children's health
Font Size
A
A
A

Speech and Language Development - When To Call a Doctor

Call your doctor any time you or another caregiver has concerns about your child's speech and language development. Be aware of red flags that indicate a possible developmental delay, such as when your child does not make sounds that are expected for his or her age.

Your health professional will conduct a physical examination and ask questions about your child's medical history. This information can help your health professional identify developmental patterns and assess whether any underlying conditions, such as hearing loss, are interfering with development.

Your health professional may also recommend other tests to:

  • Rule out underlying conditions. For example, hearing tests conducted by an audiologist may be recommended to rule out hearing loss. Even a small amount of hearing loss in very young children (from birth to 3 years) may cause speech and language development problems.
  • Specifically assess speech and language developmental progress. Questionnaires and evaluations by a speech-language pathologist can help define where your child's abilities are in relation to other children of the same age.
  • Determine whether other problems, such as behavioral difficulties or developmental delays in other areas, are also occurring.

Who to See

The following health professionals can diagnose speech and language problems and may work with other health professionals to treat them:

Speech-language pathologists treat children with speech and language delays.

Other professionals may be involved in the care of children with speech and language delays:

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: January 05, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
Next Article:
webMD Video

click to expand/contract  Adjusting to a New School

little boy at school

This year, one out of every five American families will move to a new home. For school-aged children, a move can be met with excitement and fear. Here’s how you can ease the adjustment to a new school.

Watch Video

click to expand/contract  Pre-Athletic Physicals

click to expand/contract  Booster Shots

click to expand/contract  Preschool Eye Exams

click to expand/contract  Health 101 for College Students

Ask Dr. Parker

WebMD's pediatrician Steven Parker, MD, answers your questions.

Would the fear of autism keep you from getting your child vaccinated?