Communication is a big part of how children connect with the world around them. May is National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, a time to raise awareness about early communication development and when to seek support.
While every child meets milestones at their own pace, there are certain signs that may indicate your child could benefit from speech and language services, including having a limited vocabulary for their age, difficulty being understood by familiar and unfamiliar listeners, or not yet combining words into short phrases. Other signs may include trouble following simple directions or frequent frustration when trying to communicate. You may also notice limited social interaction among peers/adults, difficulty engaging in back-and-forth communication, or challenges answering simple questions. If you notice any of these signs, the next step is often a speech-language evaluation to better understand your child’s communication skills.
During a speech-language evaluation, a speech-language pathologist will assess your child’s speech sounds, language comprehension and expression, and overall communication skills through a combination of play-based activities, conversation, and standardized assessments when appropriate. Caregiver input is also an essential part of the process, as it helps provide a more complete understanding of your child’s communication abilities across different settings. If therapy is recommended, it is always individualized to each child’s unique needs and may target areas such as speech sound production, vocabulary growth, comprehension, or social communication skills. Sessions are typically play-based and engaging, and are designed to build skills in a supportive, motivating, and child-centered environment.
If you have concerns about your child’s speech or language development, consider reaching out to The Speech and Language Center for support. Early evaluation and intervention can make a meaningful difference in helping children build strong communication skills and
grow with confidence!
