Every child develops speech and language skills at their own rate, making the range of what is considered normal very broad. While it is perfectly normal to mispronounce words on occasion, it can make it easy to overlook an issue. As parents, we can’t help but worry. Is my child meeting the developmental milestones?
“We know parents want the best for their children. However, they may hear messages that encourage a ‘wait and see’ approach by suggesting a child may grow out of a communication issue. Unfortunately, this often is not the case. Delaying treatment means children may miss a critical developmental window where they acquire a majority of their foundational speech and language skills, which occurs between birth and 3 years of age, ” said Elise Davis-McFarland, PhD, CCC-SLP, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association 2018 President.
“Hearing and listening to language is the primary way young children learn. The skills achieved during this time lay the groundwork for later success with reading and writing, academics, social interactions, and career options and advancement—making early intervention for any speech/language or hearing problem, preferably well before age 3, so important.”
Why is Speech and Language Therapy Important?
The process which a child develops communication significantly impacts their lives. From their social skills, academics and through adulthood.
For example, if your young child is struggling pronouncing the ‘r’ sound, it may not seem like a big deal. But it can be a domino effect, without intervention, they face significant challenges. A child may have trouble talking with other children, speaking up in class, express their thoughts, reading comprehension, and this can stay with them as they grow up.
Does my child need speech therapy?
Think about how your child communicates – listens, speaks, non-verbal communications – and the role it plays in their everyday activities and relationship with others. For example:
Follow age appropriate multiple step instructions. Put your toys away, feed the dog, and then brush your teeth.
Participating to age appropriate conversations
Displaying age appropriate writing and reading. A 6 year old writing their own name or an 8 year old reading to themselves.
Answering age appropriate questions with clarity
Communication encompasses most of what we learn, problems with these skills can lead to anxiety and below average performance in school.
Communication issues can arise for a number of reasons. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s milestones, it is important to speak with a speech therapist.
