How to Talk to a Child with Speech Delay

If your child isn’t speaking much, don’t panic.

One of the most heartwarming moments is hearing your child say “mama” or “dada.” But what if those words don’t come when expected?

“Is something wrong?”
“Should I wait?”
“Am I doing enough?”

Take a deep breath— you are not alone, and you’ve done nothing wrong. Many children experience speech delay. With the right support, they can thrive.

This blog will show you how to talk to your child in ways that feel natural, supportive, and empowering.
Think of your words as water to a seed. Growth takes time, but with steady care—it will happen.

What is Speech Delay?

It’s slower speech than expected— but it doesn’t always mean something is wrong.

Speech delay means your child isn’t using words as quickly or clearly as peers. But they often understand more than they can say.

Just like walking, every child talks at their own pace. Early support, though, can make a big difference—especially while the brain is most flexible (thanks to neuroplasticity).

How Should I Talk to Help?

Here’s a parent-friendly, proven guide to support your child’s speech development:

1. Follow their lead by noticing what they love
   Talk about what they’re focused on. If they’re playing with blocks:
   Instead of: “What are you building?”
   Try: “Block. Tall block. Go up!”
2. Use short, slow sentences they can grasp
   Think of it like sending a message on slow internet—short and clear works best:
   “Shoe on.”
   “Big ball!”
   “Time to eat.”
3. Pause and wait
   After speaking, pause for 5 seconds. It gives them time to process and try replying.
   The pause says: “I’m here. I’ll wait. You matter.”
4. Use gestures alongside words
   Think of gestures as “visual subtitles” that reinforce meaning:
   • Wave for “bye”
   • Point to objects
   • Raise hands for “up”
5. Repeat and expand their words
   If they say “ball,” you say:
   “Red ball”
   “Big ball”
   “Throw ball”
6. Use play as your language classroom
   Kids learn best through play. Use playful phrases during activities:
   • Blowing bubbles: “Pop! Big bubble!”
   • Cars: “Go! Stop!”
   • Pretend cooking: “Stir. Hot food.”

When Should I Seek Help for Speech Delay?

If your child is 2 and uses fewer than 50 words, or isn’t combining 2 words by age 2.5–3, consider reaching out to a professional.

Early support isn’t about labeling—it’s about giving your child a strong start while their brain is most open to learning.

This NHS video explains typical speech milestones between 12–30 months, highlighting when it’s time to reach out for extra help.

Want to Take the First Step? We’re Here to Help.

At Neuronurture Kids, we offer play-based, online therapy led by certified speech-language therapists and developmental pediatricians.

Click here to book
WhatsApp: +91 74117 49796

Looking for Helpful Tools?

Visit our Resource Library for expert tips, printable speech checklists, and parent-friendly activities you can start today.

Learn more at Neuronurture Kids about how our programs can support your child’s growth.

You’re not late. You’re right on time.
Every loving word you say becomes a stepping stone.
Your presence matters more than perfection.
Let’s build their words—one moment at a time.