Why Isn’t My Child Talking?

Why isn’t my child talking is a popular question parents ask.

Being blessed with a child is the most special event in every couple’s life. Parents have a tendency to celebrate each and every milestone achieved by their baby. As a result, it is natural to compare a baby’s developmental progress with other babies. However, parents need to understand that every child develops at their own pace. There’s nothing wrong with a child if he’s not ready to walk or talk yet.

It is important for a baby to progress steadily rather than achieving specific milestones within set timelines.

Language and speech delays are two of the most common developmental concerns discussed by parents of babies and young children. Some common speech problems include stuttering or difficulty to pronounce some words correctly. Fluency disorders and stammering are also common. Language problems include difficulty using or understanding words to communicate properly.

Disorders and Delays in Young Children

Children who show signs of language delays develop other skills normally as other children. However, they develop skills at a slower rate than average. Other children catch up in preschool years, especially with some guidance and intervention. On the other hand, children with language or speech disorders and delays may need further guidance. Since their language and speech skills are not quite right, they do not follow the basic developmental process of an average child.

Language disorders and delays can  affect a child’s receptive language. It is the ability to interpret and understand what someone says.It can also affect a child’s expressive language, which is the ability to express opinions or ideas. Such inabilities in a child can lead to misinterpretation as a behaviour problem, this may lead to tantrums, frustration and difficulty getting along with other children.

In you are a little concerned regarding your child’s language and speech development you should consult with your Health visitor or visit a  local children’s centre who may be able to signpost you to a professional Speech and Language Therapist. With early intervention, language and speech problems can be quickly resolved.

Speech Therapy Sessions

In case you are concerned about your child’s language or speech development, his/her nursery or school can refer them to see a a certified Speech and Language Therapist. These professional are qualified to assess your child and diagnose the specific problem your child is experiencing. Speech and Language Therapist liaise very closely with nurseries and schools and help plan according to the needs and requirements of your child.

Your child’s hearing may also be tested and evaluated as part of the assessment. Depending on your child’s age and language or speech problem, the Speech and Language Therapist  may visit you in your home . Your child needs to actively participate in the sessions as these are tailored to help with their difficulties

Focus on Early Language Development

Early language development can be one of the most important factors in resolving your child’s language or speech problem. Parents need to have quality interactions with their children on a daily basis. In order to help your child with early development, you need to know what milestones he should have achieved by a specific age. Here is a basic overview of the concept and remember every child is an individual.

Before A Child Turns One Year Old

• He should be able to say 2-3 words besides Dada’ and Mama’.
• He should understand basic instructions.
• He should recognize his name.

When A Child is One to Two Year Old

• He should use 10 to 20 words and some names.
• He should be able to combine two words, like Bye Mama’.
• He should be making sounds of familiar animals.

When A Child is Two to Three Years Old

• He should have conversations with himself and toys.
• He should at least have a 450-word vocabulary.
• He should be able to combine verbs and nouns, like Daddy go’.

You need to talk to your baby while managing your daily chores. You also need to imitate your baby’s babbling and name some objects or body parts that interest him. You can also describe your child’s actions and point out at specific colors while speaking them loudly (I am wearing a Red’ shirt). You should also read to your child on a regular basis and play word games like Peek a Boo’. Signing songs can also be a very good idea. Whenever your child speaks something incorrect, try to repeat it, while correcting words and grammar.

If you’re still worried about your child’s speech talk to your health visitor who will be able to help you.

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