How to Know If Your Child Needs Speech Therapy: A Parent’s Guide

Speech Therapy: What Is It and Who Can Benefit?

Speech therapy helps children overcome challenges related to speaking, understanding language, social communication, or even feeding. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) works to build skills in areas like articulation, fluency, comprehension, and more.

Children who might benefit from speech therapy include those who:

• Have difficulty producing certain sounds.

• Are late to start talking.

• Struggle with understanding or following directions.

• Experience challenges with social communication.

Speech and Language Milestones to Watch For

Here are general milestones to track your child’s development:

By Age 2:

• Says at least 50 words.

• Combines two words (e.g., “want cookie”).

• Follows simple instructions like “Get your shoes.”

By Age 3:

• Speaks in short sentences (3–4 words).

• Is understood by family members most of the time.

• Begins to ask “why” questions.

By Age 4:

• Produces most speech sounds clearly but may struggle with tricky sounds like “r” or “l.”

• Tells simple stories or recounts events.

• Is understood by people outside the family.

By Age 5:

• Uses complex sentences.

• Can describe actions and events in detail.

• Produces nearly all speech sounds accurately.

Signs Your Child Might Need Speech Therapy

Download the free Red Flags for Speech Delay checklist here. While every child develops at their own pace, here are some common red flags that might indicate the need for professional support:

• Delayed speech: By age 2, your child isn’t saying any words or only uses a few.

• Difficulty being understood: By age 3, strangers cannot understand your child’s speech.

• Lack of gestures or nonverbal communication: Limited pointing, waving, or showing interest in objects by age 1.

• Struggles with social communication: Difficulty taking turns, maintaining eye contact, or engaging in conversation.

• Persistent stuttering or fluency issues: Repeated interruptions in speech (e.g., “I-I-I want that”).

• Frustration with communication: Your child becomes upset because they can’t express themselves effectively.

When to Seek Help

If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s important to consult a speech-language pathologist for an evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in building your child’s communication skills and confidence.

What Happens in Speech Therapy?

A typical speech therapy process includes:

1. Assessment: An SLP evaluates your child’s speech, language, and communication skills.

2. Goal Setting: The therapist creates a personalized plan based on your child’s unique needs.

3. Therapy Sessions: Sessions might involve games, exercises, or other engaging activities to target specific skills.

Speech therapy is highly individualized and designed to make learning fun for your child.

Next Steps for Concerned Parents

If you’re unsure about your child’s development, start by:

• Using a Checklist: Download our free Speech & Language Milestone Checklist.

• Scheduling a Screening: A professional evaluation can provide clarity and a plan for moving forward.

• Talking with Your Pediatrician: Share your concerns and ask for a referral to a speech-language pathologist.

Early Action Leads to Big Results

The earlier speech therapy begins, the better the outcomes for children with speech or language challenges. Don’t wait to seek help if you have concerns—taking the first step today can make all the difference in your child’s future success.

Schedule a Free Screening Today!

At Nova Speech Pathology Restoration, we’re dedicated to helping children overcome speech challenges and achieve their full potential. Schedule a free screening today and let us help your child find their voice.

📞 561-983-1230
📧 info@novaspeechpathologyrestoration.com
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