What to Do When a Child Has Speech Delay

Worried Your Child Isn’t Talking?

Does your child use fewer words than others their age? Are you concerned they’re not talking clearly—or maybe not talking at all? This can feel confusing and overwhelming, but you’re not alone. As speech-language pathologists, we remind families: early action leads to better outcomes. You can do a lot at home (even before therapy) to support your child’s speech development.

What Exactly Is Being Diagnosed?

Speech delay means a child isn’t speaking at the expected rate for their age. But here’s something many parents don’t realize: speech and language are two different things. Speech refers to how your child produces sounds and words.

Language is how they understand and use those words to communicate needs, share their joy, express their thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Some children struggle with one area, others with both. Knowing which is affected is the first step in getting the right help.

Step 1: Observe Closely, Don’t “Wait and See”

Every child develops differently, but here are signs that may point to a delay:

• Not babbling by 12 months
• Not using first words by 16–18 months
• Not combining two words by age 2
• Speech that’s difficult to understand past age 3

Pro Tip: Watch how your child communicates. Frustration, pointing, or avoiding words are signs they may need extra help.

Step 2: Rule Out Hearing Issues

Hearing problems—even minor ones—can affect speech development. Ear infections and fluid buildup are common culprits.

• Schedule a hearing test with an audiologist
• Notice if your child turns when you call their name
• Watch if they respond to sounds, music, or voices

Step 3: Talk Constantly—Even If They Don’t Respond

Your child learns language from you. Narrate your day in simple words:

• “Socks on. Let’s get your shoes!”
• “Look! Dog! Brown dog running.”

The more words they hear, the bigger their “word bank” becomes.

Step 4: Model, Don’t Pressure

Instead of saying, “Say ball,” try saying:

• “Ball! Big red ball! Want ball?”
• “You’re pointing to the ball. Let’s play with the ball.”

Keep the interaction fun and low-pressure. Kids imitate naturally when they feel relaxed.

Step 5: Reduce Screen Time, Increase Face Time

Children under 2 learn best through live interaction, not passive video watching.

• Limit screens to under 1 hour/day for ages 2–5
• Use face-to-face playtime: peekaboo, blocks, pretend games
• Talk during routines: mealtime, bath, walks

Step 6: Use Gestures and Visuals

Pair spoken words with signs or pictures:

• Teach simple signs: “more,” “milk,” “all done”
• Point to objects while naming them
• Use routines to reinforce language visually and physically

Step 7: Read Every Day (Even the Same Book Again!)

Repetition builds recognition and memory. Try:

• Pointing to pictures and labeling them
• Asking questions: “Where’s the cat?”
• Letting your child fill in the blank: “Brown bear, brown bear, what do you…”

Step 8: Know When to Get Help

Early intervention makes a big difference. Contact a speech-language pathologist if your child:

• Isn’t meeting milestones
• Uses very few words past age 2
• Gets frustrated easily when trying to talk

A professional can assess your child and help you with a clear plan forward.

You’re Not Alone—And You’re Not Late

Speech delays are common, and early help works. Keep playing, connecting, talking, and most importantly—trusting your instincts. You’ve got this.

Book a Free 10-Minute Call With Our Experts

Not sure if your child’s delay is something to worry about? We’re happy to listen, answer your questions, and guide you.
WhatsApp: +91 74117 49796
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