Do you know how to identify language delays in toddlers? Here is what you must know.Children learn languages differently. Some learn it fast while some grasp slowly. However, parents get worried when they find that their child has missed developmental milestone. Are you aware what you can do if you find a language delay in your child?
When you watch your child grow, it remains in your mind that every child shows signs of development at different stages. However, it is good to be aware of the milestones so that you can track any kind of delay accurately and take action as soon as possible. Early treatment will help your child catch up or at least make progress.
Language and
speech delays are the most common problems in toddlers. Although speech is referred to verbal expression and formation of words,
language takes a broader place which helps in expressing feelings and receiving information.
What is language delay?
You child is coping with language delay if your child is finding it difficult
- To say first words
- Making sentences or putting words together
- Grasping new words or sentences
- To use right words
- Using wrong words in sentences
- To retell a story
- To follow verbal instructions
What are the warning signs or language delay in children?
If your child does not
- Respond to loud sounds
- Babble
- Imitate sounds
- Use any single word
- Enjoy learning languages
- Listen to others
Causes of language delay in toddlers
Although, actual causes of language delay are not known, researchers are of the opinion that they are genetic or biological component. However, practically seeing language delay is found
- More in boys than girls
- Children with family history of communication problems
- Children with developmental syndrome
- Children with hearing problems
- Children with severe ear infection
When to approach for professional help
Children start speaking at different ages and so it is not necessary that if your 2 years old is not saying complete sentences, she is suffering from language disorder. So, comparing your children with those of the same age group is not always sensible and helpful.
You need to take professional advice if your 1 year old is- Unable to communicate with you
Your 2 year old is- Not saying different words
- Not putting two or more words together
- Not using new words and only repeating what you say
- Unable to follow simple instructions
- Unable to respond to simple questions
- Does not use speech to communicate
Treatment
If your child’s doctor diagnoses your child with speech or language delay problem, you should see a
speech-language pathologist. The specialist will test the level of disorder and then use speech therapy to treat your child. It is good to follow the advice of the specialist and help your child get rid of the problem as fast as possible.
The specialist may suggest
- Talk to your child as much as possible.
- Recite, sing and read out to your child
- Give emphasis on speech and language throughout the day
- Get middle ear infection treated if necessary
Many parents do not talk to their babies until they push them to. However, the most effective way of helping your child with proper development at right age, it is advisable to talk, interact and read out to your child right from the time your infant is capable of focusing on you. You can also copy and exaggerate the sound that your infant is making. Cuddle and hold your baby tight and play by going down to your child’s level. All these activities are definitely going to help you make your child speak properly and fight with language delay as well.
How to detect language and speech problem in toddlers? What are the possible treatment options for speech and language delays? How can parents help in overcoming language delays? Discuss here.