What If Your Child's Speech Seems Delayed?
Posted on: 29 December 2016
Speech and language development delays can leave parents anxious about their children's futures. In some instances, there is no cause for concern. In others, professional intervention by a trained speech therapist might be necessary. If you believe that your child's speech and language are not developing normally, here is what you need to know.
When Should You Worry?
When it comes to speech and language development, it can sometimes be difficult to determine whether or not a child is experiencing a communication problem that should be assessed by a professional. Some children are simply late bloomers and only need time to develop.
If you believe that your child is a having problems, there are some signs you can look for. For instance, if your child is not using gestures or saying simple words, such as "mama" and "dada" at a year-old, he or she might be experiencing communication problems. You should also be concerned if your child does not attempt to babble.
Ideally, your child should respond to simple commands by the age of two. However, if he or she is having developmental delays, your child might not. You should also consider intervention if your child is unable to name or point out body parts or make simple sentences.
What Are the Treatment Options?
After an assessment, your child's speech therapist will most likely recommend the use of language development therapy. There are several strategies that are used during therapy.
For instance, the therapist, like Evergreen Speech & Hearing Clinic, Inc., might focus on language intervention activities, such as using picture books and modeling the correct usage of words with your child. The recommended therapy depends on whether or not there is a underlying issue for your child's problem.
As part of the therapy, you will also be taught exercises and activities that you can use at home to help with your child's development. The therapist will occasionally re-evaluate your child's progress to determine if modifications needs to be made.
What Can You Do at Home?
In addition to following the therapy program outlined by your child's speech therapist, there are some steps you can take at home to encourage development. For instance, you can dedicate a part of each day for playing with your child. While playing, use simple sentences and encourage your child to do the same.
You also need to avoid the practice of just giving your child items that he or she wants. Occasionally, wait for your child to articulate those needs before handing items to him or her.
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