We all want what’s best for our children, it can feel overwhelming to think about your child having a speech or language disorder.

Untreated communication disorders can affect a child’s social skills and academic performance. When treated early, communication disorders can be prevented or eliminated.

Communication, speech, language, and hearing disorders often go undetected and untreated for too long. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), these issues are among the most common condition to affect children nationwide.

“Communication disorders are among the most common childhood disabilities—and they are highly treatable in most cases,” said Elise Davis-McFarland, PhD, CCC-SLP, ASHA. “Yet even with all of the information available to today’s parents, our members report they are still seeing children much later than what is optimal for achieving the best outcome.”

More than 50 percent of parents don’t think there is enough information about children’s communication disorders available.

Over 25 percent of parents who were concerned about their child’s speech and language development did not seek treatment.

According to ASHA, here are the top reasons why parents did not seek speech therapy for their child.

24% uncertainty over where to get treatment

• 21% pediatrician saying child would grow out of it

• 19% child’s school or teacher said it wasn’t a problem

• 18% it didn’t seem like a big deal

17% they didn’t know where to start/who to contact

What are the signs of a speech disorder?

Cannot be understood 90- 100% of the time by age seven

Stuttering at any age

Produces speech that is unclear, even to familiar people by age three

May still make mistakes on sounds like s, sh, z, and r by age four.

What are the signs of a language disorder?

Cannot put two to three words together by age three

Cannot shift from talking about one idea to another by age seven

Has trouble playing and talking with other children by age three

Say only a few words by the age of 18 moths

Does not smile when you talk to them by 3 months.

Speech and language disorders are not uncommon, especially in children. It can affect their confidence, communication, and overall mental health. Which is why it is so important to seek help. The earlier it is treated, the easier it is on everyone

Team Up With A Speech Therapist For Success

Speaking clearly and good communication is key to your child’s success in the future. The most important things you can do to help is to consult with a speech-language therapist, be patient, have a conversation and speak clearly to your child.

Contact Orlando’s First Words Speech Therapy For More Information