When is a child ready to start speech therapy? How early is too early? Are they reaching their communication milestones? Research shows early intervention – no matter the age- can significantly improve the outcome of your child’s communication.
If you are looking for developmental support for your child’s speech and language, contact Orlando’s First Words Speech Therapy. Our treatment plans are specifically tailored to each child. To ensure they reach their full potential.
Does Your Child Need Speech Therapy?
Just because your child may be a little behind, doesn’t always mean they need speech therapy. However, whether is is a noticeable speech issue or not, it can impact their development. Here are a few signs that your child can benefit from speech and language therapy.
Not Responding To Your Voice
If by three months of age, your child does not recognize your voice. Or their own name by nine months, it may be an indication of an underlying condition. Speaking to a speech therapist, sooner rather than later, can help put your mind at ease
Your Child is Stuttering Or Stumbling Over Words
Fluency disorder is speech disorder where a child stutters. It can begin as early as age two, when a child is developing and learning how their oral muscles work.
If you notice your child appears to be uncomfortable, frustrated, or makes odd faces when attempting to speak, can indicate a stutter. Speech therapy can help with this development and build their self esteem.
Avoid Social Situations
It isn’t uncommon for a child to be shy or quiet in social situations. But if you notice they are regularly having difficulty expressing themselves, especial;;y in social environments, speech therapy can help determine if there is an underlying condition.
Trouble Understanding You
Have you observed your child not understanding simple instructions or questions? Typically a two year old can understand about 300 words. They should be able to understand simple phrases or instructions. A speech therapist can help develop their speech and ability to understand language.
Having Trouble Saying Certain Sounds
Have you noticed your child makes a limited number of sounds, regularly omitting consonants or vowels? Speech therapy can help them develop producing sounds for clearer speech.
Communication milestones are a huge part of a child’s development. They acquire expressive language (using language) and receptive language (understanding language). While each child develops at their own rate, when a child is struggling to meet these milestones in communication, it is time to talk to a speech therapist.
Check back with us next week for more indicators your child may need speech therapy. Until then, if you have any concerns about your child’s communication, contact First Words Speech Therapy.
