How Children Learn to Speak and What to Do If You Suspect Problems

“Parents should first discuss any concerns about speech/language development with their child’s pediatrician, who can make the initial referral for a comprehensive evaluation,” says speech/language pathologist Jennifer Bartlett. “Some pediatricians may suggest waiting until a child is 2 years old to see if he outgrows the problem, but if your child has not met general speech/language milestones and you have cause for concern, trust your instincts and request that your child be referred to a speech/language pathologist.”

If there is a history of ear infections, hearing should be tested by an audiologist prior to a speech and language evaluation. If other factors are contributing to speech and language delays, the speech/language specialist conducting the evaluation may refer the child to a neurologist, psychologist or otolaryngologist (ear-nose-throat specialist).

“We don’t always know why children have speech and language delays, but early detection and intervention is critical to helping children reach their potential,” says Bartlett. Most states have early intervention programs (birth to age 3) that provide evaluation and treatment services. The criteria for this support may vary, but the services typically include speech/language, physical, occupational and developmental therapies. Once a child turns 3, services can be accessed through the local public school system.”

RESOURCES

Books

Beyond Baby Talk, by Kenn Apel, Ph.D., and Julie Masterson, Ph.D., American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, 2001. Discusses key influences on language development and offers excellent communication tips that stimulate good speech and language skills.

Look Who’s Talking! How to Enhance Your Child's Language Development, Starting at Birth, by Laura Dyer, MCD, Meadowbrook Press, 2004. A comprehensive look at how children learn to talk and how parents can help their kids in a positive, healthy way.

Help Your Baby Talk, by Robert E. Owens Jr., Ph.D., with Leah Felden, Perigee, 2004. This book introduces Owens’ “Shared Communication Method,” giving parents playful techniques to help their baby learn to talk and to understand language.

Organizations

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association– Answers FAQs, lists accredited professionals and offers support and resources. Web site is the premier site for information on language acquisition, delays and disorders.

Division for Children with Communication Disorders– Offers extensive resources and research on specific disorders.

National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities – Provides information on early intervention services (birth to age 3) and school services for older children.

On the Web

American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics – offers extensive information about both normal and disordered development.

The Stuttering Foundation of America– provides free online services and support.

Related Reading:

Common Speech Problems

Barbara Smith Decker is a freelance writer specializing in health and medical issues, and the mother of three children.