Are you worried your child is having trouble with their speech, language or communication skills? Concerned they may have a speech disorder or impediment? Or have seen signs that something just isn’t quite right? You may think it’s “just a phase” or they will “catch up”, but if you have concerns, it is important to seek help.

While every child learns at their own pace, meeting communication milestones is crucial. If not meet in a timely manner, it can be difficult for a child to properly communicate in the future.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself about speech disorder and impediment

How does your child’s communication affect their day to day life at home?

Consider how your child communicates at home, speaking, nonverbal communication and listening. How this plays a part in the relationships with others in the home and regular activities.

For instance, does your child follow simple age appropriate instructions, pick up the cup or brush your teeth.  Also, watch how your child interacts with their peers and siblings. Do they actively engage in conversation and activities in age appropriate ways?

Does my child’s communications skills affect their social life?

Next time you’re out with your child, notice how they participate in peer related activities, interact with friends and even adults. These interactions are important clues to communication issues. For example, do they tend to be isolated or wander off by themselves? Or do they participate in activities that are peer related appropriately? Are they communicating verbally, expressing their opinions and asks questions?

Is it easy for those outside of your family to understand your child’s verbal communication?

It can be difficult for those you are used to hearing your child on a regular basis to realize a speech problem. By the time a child enters kindergarten, their speech should be understandable by acquaintances and strangers. If you observe people consistently having to ask your child to slow their speech down, repeat a phrase or questions, this may be an indication of a speech issue

While children develop at different rates, if you suspect your child has a speech or language disorder it is important to take action. Hoping they will outgrow the problem can negatively affect other aspects of your child’s life.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child, we encourage you to contact Orlando’s First Words Therapy. We take a holistic approach to speech-language-therapy to help your child communicate more effectively.