June 3, 2002

When you want to know something, as the expert. For young children, that would be their parents, of course! Parents know more about their child than anyone else possibly could. They watch their child’s development and recognize the new things he or she is learning to do. Of course, parents also compare their child’s progress with that of other children around the same age. This is where questions often arise: is my child doing okay? Is he ahead of other children? Why can’t she speak yet — little Justin is the same age and he’s….”

Even if they do not know exactly, parents usually have a good impression of their child’s progress. They seem to know instinctively if something is not quite right. Other parents and relatives will be quick to offer their own stories and reassurances such as “she’ll outgrow it” or “boys in our family are late talkers.”

But waiting is so hard. What if he does not outgrow it? What if we wait too long?

A child’s development in speech and language begins naturally with the coos and cries at birth. While some children will take longer to learn to communicate, others will have problems learning to talk. But how do you know?

First, consider that children tend to pass through the same stages of development as they acquire language and speech skills, though achieving various milestones will vary in age. They learn at their own rate by interacting with those around them. Here are some general things that can help a child to learn.

For a six-month old, name objects that the baby touches or looks at; sing songs and nursery rhymes and use lots of gestures, signs and facial expressions when talking to your baby. Around 12 months of age, introduce songs with actions and help your child to try to copy your actions. During daily activities, use short sentences about what you are doing and read colourful books to your baby.

For the 18-month old, start to expand what your child says. For example, is she says “dog,” you might say “big dog.” Clearly repeat the word your child is trying to say and use sentences two to four words long when talking to the child.

By the time they are two years old, parents should be playing children’s music and stories, and listening with their child. Talking about new places before going there and after getting home are a great idea. Playing games like “touch daddy’s nose” is a great way to help a child learn to listen.

Parents who are concerned about their child’s speech and language progress can turn to a community speech-language therapist to assess their child’s skills. The therapist will also work with the child and family to take the next steps, if necessary. It is a good idea to talk to a speech-language therapist if you see these signs:

- at six months your child does not smile or make sounds when awake;
- at 12 months your child does not try to show you things by reaching and looking;
- at 18 months your child does not gesture and try to say some words;
- at 24 months your child uses very few words or does not seem to understand you.
Early identification is critical to increase a child’s chances for improving communication skills. To find out more, or to simply ask a few questions, call the health unit and ask to speak to the speech-language therapist. They can help you determine if your child is a late bloomer or can benefit some extra help.

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Call-out:

“While some children will take longer to learn to communicate, others will have problems learning to talk. But how do you know?”