Speech is how sounds are made, and language is how we understand and use words. Some children are slower than expected to start talking, combine words, follow directions or express themselves.
Early support can make a real difference, and many kids make great progress. A delay is not your fault and does not say anything about your child's intelligence or potential.
What parents may notice
- May say fewer words than other kids their age
- May be hard for family or others to understand
- May not follow simple directions
- May use gestures or pointing instead of words
- May get frustrated when they cannot be understood
- May struggle to put words together in sentences
- May not respond to their name or to speech
- May have trouble telling a story or answering questions
Seeing some of these does not mean your child has this condition. Only a qualified professional can diagnose.
Strengths worth noticing
- Expressive in other ways such as gestures, play or art
- Often very observant
- Persistent and determined communicators
- Warm and affectionate
- Quick learners when supported visually
What often helps at home
- Talk about what you are doing throughout the day
- Read, sing and play together
- Give them time to respond without rushing
- Repeat and gently expand what they say
- Use pictures, signs or gestures alongside words
- Reduce pressure to say it right
- Celebrate attempts to communicate
- Ask your pediatrician about a hearing check and speech-language evaluation
At school
Show school tips
- Speech-language therapy services where eligible
- Visual supports in class
- Extra time to answer
- Small-group language practice
- Teacher partnership on goals
Myths vs. reality
Show myths and reality
Reality: Some do catch up, but a check is worthwhile because early support helps.
Reality: Learning two languages does not cause a delay. Talk to a professional if you are worried.
Reality: Delays have many causes. Do not blame yourself, and keep talking and playing with your child.
When to talk to a professional
- Your child is not talking or combining words as expected for their age
- Your child has lost words or skills
- You are unsure about your child's hearing
- Your child is very hard to understand
- You want an evaluation through the pediatrician, early intervention or school
If your child ever talks about hurting themselves or others, contact their clinician right away, or call or text 988 (US). In an emergency call 911. We are not licensed professionals; this page is general educational information and our best practical thinking, not medical advice.