Children
20 January 2025Signs Your Child May Need Speech Therapy
Discover the early warning signs that indicate your child might benefit from speech therapy and when to seek professional help.
As a parent, you want the best for your child's development. Understanding when to seek help from a {{therapist}} can make a significant difference in your child's communication skills and confidence.
Age-Appropriate Milestones
Every child develops at their own pace, but there are general milestones to watch for:
By 12 Months
- Responds to their name
- Uses gestures like waving or pointing
- Babbles with different sounds
By 18 Months
- Says several single words
- Points to objects they want
- Understands simple instructions
By 2 Years
- Combines two words together
- Has a vocabulary of 50+ words
- Can be understood by familiar adults about half the time
By 3 Years
- Speaks in short sentences
- Asks questions
- Can be understood by unfamiliar people most of the time
Warning Signs to Watch For
Consider consulting a {{therapist}} if your child:
- Isn't babbling by 12 months
- Has no words by 18 months
- Isn't combining words by age 2
- Is difficult to understand by age 3
- Shows frustration when trying to communicate
- Has difficulty following simple directions
- Loses previously acquired speech skills
Common Speech and Language Difficulties
Speech Sound Disorders
- Substituting one sound for another ("wabbit" for "rabbit")
- Leaving off sounds ("ca" for "cat")
- Adding sounds where they don't belong
Language Delays
- Limited vocabulary for age
- Difficulty forming sentences
- Trouble understanding questions
Fluency Disorders (Stammering)
- Repeating sounds or syllables
- Prolonging sounds
- Blocking on words
What to Do If You're Concerned
- Trust your instincts: You know your child best
- Consult your GP or health visitor: They can provide initial guidance
- Request an evaluation: A qualified {{therapist}} can assess your child's needs
- Don't wait: Early intervention often leads to better outcomes
The Benefits of Early Intervention
Research consistently shows that early speech therapy can:
- Improve communication skills more rapidly
- Boost confidence and social skills
- Reduce frustration for both child and family
- Prepare children for academic success
- Prevent secondary issues from developing
Finding Help
Search our directory to find a qualified {{therapist}} near you who specializes in working with children. Early support can set your child on the path to confident communication.