Is Your Child Struggling with Speech? Early Signs and Next Steps

As parents, we eagerly anticipate each new milestone such as first smiles, first steps, and especially those first words. When speech and language milestones seem delayed or different than expected, it’s natural to wonder whether your child might need extra support.

This article will help you understand typical speech development and recognise the early signs that speech therapy could be beneficial.

Typical Speech Development Timeline

While every child is unique, understanding general speech milestones can help you notice potential delays:

• 6–12 months: Babbling sounds, responds to their name

• 12–18 months: Uses single words, understands simple commands

• 18–24 months: Combines two words, understands basic questions

• 2–3 years: Short sentences, clearer speech, understands more complex instructions

• 3–5 years: Increased vocabulary, clearer pronunciation, forming longer sentences

  
  

Children progress at different rates, but significant deviations from these milestones could indicate the need for further evaluation.

Early Indicators of Speech Issues

Watch for these key signs that your child might benefit from a speech and language assessment:

• Limited speech or vocabulary compared to peers

• Difficulties pronouncing words clearly, causing frustration

• Difficulty understanding instructions or following conversations

• Noticeable struggles with fluency (repeating sounds, syllables, or words)

• Lack of interest in communication or social interactions

  
  

If you notice these indicators consistently, early intervention can greatly improve your child’s communication skills and overall confidence.

One parent shared with us that their boy’s first word was ‘Daddy’ and after weeks of saying it, he no longer said it or much of anything else. The clear regression was worrisome to Mum, and this led to an assessment and eventual autism diagnosis. While the parents were somewhat surprised because, “our son didn’t show a lot of the typical ‘red flags’ people tell you to look out for, like tippy toe walking, lining toys up in a certain way, and he didn’t have any obvious sensory issues we thought weren’t simple preferences.” The couple agrees that early intervention was crucial, and they’re glad they followed their gut and sought professional help. 

The Importance of Timely Intervention

Research shows that early support through speech therapy significantly enhances a child’s ability to communicate effectively and participate socially, academically, and emotionally. Addressing speech delays early not only boosts language skills but also helps prevent potential learning and social challenges later on.

As one Speech-Language Pathologist wisely shares:

"When we support speech early, we’re nurturing more than just language. We're nurturing confidence, connection, and lifelong skills."

Early intervention with a speech therapist creates meaningful improvements that help your child’s development.

Next Steps: Explore How Speech Therapy Helps

Curious about how speech therapy works in practice? The next article, "How Speech Therapy Helps Your Child Communicate with Confidence," explores specific ways speech therapy supports children’s language skills, empowering them to express themselves clearly and confidently.