It can be difficult to know whether your child has a speech or language delay, they are late bloomers, or just going through a phase. Are you seeing any signs of a speech impediment? Maybe their teacher mentioned something about your child’s speech. Are they reaching all their milestones? How important are milestones anyway?
As a parent or caregiver, you have a lot of questions. As your child’s brain develops, meeting communication milestones is crucial. Missing a developmental milestone can have a domino effect. Making it even more difficult to learn proper communication skills as they grow.
First Words Speech Therapy suggests asking yourself a few questions to determine if your child is achieving age appropriate milestones.
Do people, not in your immediate family, understand what your child is saying or communicating? Are they difficult to understand?
Often times, parents and family members get used to hearing the speech patterns of their child, not realizing they could have a considerable speech issue. By the time a child enters elementary school, the age of 4 or 5, acquaintances and strangers should be able to understand your child. If people need to consistently ask your child to repeat themselves or to slow their speech pattern, may be a sign there is a problem with their speech
Are there repercussions if my child does not reach their communication milestones?
The cornerstone of many learning and academic issues stems from communication problems, Which can lead to anxiety issues about both social and school situations, and school performance that is below average. Make sure your child is on age appropriate levels when it comes to answering questions, participating, and paying attention in class, reading and writing.
If you suspect your child has a communication issue, an articulation, speech impediment, or stuttering problem, it is important to have it addressed by a speech therapist.
