Speech Delays in Toddlers: When to Seek Help

Language barrier

At what age do toddlers typically start meaningful speech, and when should they see a child psychiatrist? Currently, the child is one year and ten months old, can understand simple commands, and can vocalize "dada" and "mama," but these are not used meaningfully.
Is this situation considered normal or delayed?

lcm, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/06/13

Dr. Pan Yingda reply Rehabilitation

If what you described is the case, the child's language development may be slower, but that does not necessarily indicate a problem.
Each child develops at different rates in various areas; some aspects may progress quickly while others may lag behind.
In addition to language, it is important to consider other developmental areas such as eating, swallowing, fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and toileting.
If only one area is developing slowly, it is likely not a significant issue, so there is no need to be overly anxious, but efforts should be made to stimulate development.
A slower rate of development in one area is often due to insufficient stimulation (input) and a lack of opportunities for expression (output), and the essence of rehabilitation focuses on addressing these two aspects.

In terms of language development, external stimulation involves talking to the child frequently (even if you think they may not understand, such as telling stories with pictures and naming various objects, repeating and emphasizing these interactions, as moving objects seem to capture their attention).
Playing recordings can also be beneficial.
For expression, encourage the child to articulate their needs (for example, asking for milk) and praise them for doing so.
Avoid immediately fulfilling their needs with just a gesture or a look, as this would deprive them of the opportunity to practice verbal expression.
I am not sure what assistance a child psychiatrist can provide, but I recommend visiting the rehabilitation department at a major hospital for more reassurance and further guidance.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2001/06/13

More Info

Understanding speech delays in toddlers is a crucial aspect of early childhood development. Typically, by the age of one, children should be able to say a few meaningful words, such as "mama" or "dada," and by 18 months, they should have a vocabulary of about 10 to 25 words. By the age of two, toddlers usually begin to combine words into simple phrases and can understand more complex instructions.
In your case, your child is 22 months old and can understand simple commands but is only producing sounds that resemble "mama" and "dada" without meaningful context. This situation raises some concerns regarding speech development. While every child develops at their own pace, there are certain milestones that can help determine if a child is on track or if there may be a delay.

Here are some key points to consider regarding speech development and when to seek help:
1. Milestones: By 12 months, children should say at least one or two words meaningfully. By 18 months, they should have a vocabulary of at least 10 words. By 24 months, they should be able to combine two words to form simple sentences. If your child is not meeting these milestones, it may be a sign of a speech delay.

2. Understanding Language: It’s a positive sign that your child can understand simple instructions. This indicates that their receptive language skills are developing, which is essential for later expressive language skills. However, the lack of meaningful speech at this age is concerning.

3. Communication Attempts: Observe how your child communicates. Are they using gestures, pointing, or other non-verbal cues to express their needs? Children often use gestures to communicate before they can speak. If your child is not attempting to communicate in any way, this could indicate a delay.

4. Social Interaction: Pay attention to how your child interacts with others. Do they make eye contact, respond to their name, or show interest in social interactions? Social engagement is a critical component of language development.

5. When to Seek Help: If your child is not saying any meaningful words by 15 months or if they are not combining words by 24 months, it is advisable to seek an evaluation from a speech-language pathologist or a pediatrician. Early intervention is key in addressing speech delays, as it can significantly improve outcomes.

6. Possible Causes: Speech delays can arise from various factors, including hearing issues, developmental disorders, or environmental factors. A thorough evaluation can help identify any underlying issues.

7. Resources and Support: If you are concerned about your child's speech development, consider reaching out to local early intervention programs or speech therapy services. Many communities offer free screenings for young children, which can provide valuable insights into your child's development.

In conclusion, while your child is showing some signs of language comprehension, the lack of meaningful speech at 22 months is a concern. It is essential to monitor their progress closely and seek professional advice if you have any doubts. Early intervention can make a significant difference in helping your child develop their speech and language skills effectively.

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