Language Delays in Toddlers: When to Seek Help

Q: Language Delays in Toddlers: When to Seek Help

Dear Sir/Madam： For language barriers, please schedule an appointment for an examination at the ENT and Rehabilitation Medicine outpatient clinics. <br>Dr. <br>Yeh Da-Wei, Director of the ENT Department, Hsinchu Hospital.

Childhood Language Disorders

My child, a boy, is almost two and a half years old, but he is unable to produce normal sounds; he only makes some cooing and babbling noises.
He understands what we are saying and responds with sounds, but aside from the words "thank you," which we can understand, he does not say "mom" or "dad," and we do not comprehend other sounds he makes.
Should this be considered a speech delay? Which hospital and department should we visit for consultation? Thank you.

Da Xin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/09/07

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology

Dear Sir/Madam: For language barriers, please schedule an appointment for an examination at the ENT and Rehabilitation Medicine outpatient clinics.
Dr.
Yeh Da-Wei, Director of the ENT Department, Hsinchu Hospital.

Reply Date: 2009/09/07

More Info

Understanding language delays in toddlers can be a complex issue, and it’s important to approach it with care and consideration. Based on your description, your child is almost two and a half years old and primarily communicates with sounds rather than words. While it’s common for toddlers to have varying rates of speech development, there are certain milestones that can help determine if a child may need further evaluation.

By the age of 2, children typically should be able to say at least 50 words and start combining two words to form simple sentences. They should also be able to follow simple instructions and understand more of what is being said to them. In your case, your child seems to understand what is being communicated but is not producing a wide range of words or phrases. This could indicate a language delay, but it’s essential to consider other factors as well.

Language delays can stem from various causes, including hearing issues, developmental disorders, or environmental factors. Since your child is responding to sounds and seems to understand some language, it may not be a hearing issue, but it’s still crucial to rule this out. A hearing evaluation is often one of the first steps in assessing language delays.

If you suspect a language delay, it is advisable to seek help from a pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist (SLP). A pediatrician can conduct an initial assessment and refer you to a specialist if necessary. A speech-language pathologist can provide a more in-depth evaluation of your child's speech and language skills and determine if therapy is needed.

In the United States, you can start by contacting your pediatrician, who can guide you through the process. They may recommend a hearing test to ensure that your child can hear properly, as hearing loss can significantly impact speech development. If hearing is not an issue, the pediatrician may refer you to a speech-language pathologist for further assessment.

Early intervention is key when it comes to language delays. The sooner you seek help, the better the outcomes tend to be. Speech therapy can be very effective, and many children who receive early intervention go on to develop strong communication skills.

Additionally, you can support your child's language development at home. Engage in conversations with them, read books together, sing songs, and encourage them to express themselves in any way they can. Creating a language-rich environment can help stimulate their speech and language skills.

In summary, while your child's current communication style may indicate a language delay, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's language development, so don't hesitate to reach out for help.

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