Speech Delay in Babies: Signs, Causes & Treatment

• Written by Sejal Singhania

  Reviewed by Munmi Sharma

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Babies begin communicating long before they can speak actual words. They share their stories through coos, cries, giggles, facial expressions, and gestures. However, what if those adorable babbles take longer to arrive than expected? What if your child seems quieter than other toddlers, or doesn't respond when you call their name? It’s normal for parents to question whether this is just a phase or something they should worry about.

Speech and language development are key parts of your child's growth and one of the earliest indicators of how they're connecting to the world around them. Understanding the signs of a speech or language delay is crucial for a parent or caregiver. When you know what to look for, you can seek professional speech therapy services to help your child develop speech and language skills.

In this blog, we’ll explore the signs, causes, and long-term effects of toddler speech delay. We’ll also explore how speech-language professionals can effectively evaluate and treat these speech delays in little ones.

What is a Speech and Language Delay?

A language delay is a communication disorder. If your child fails to reach age-appropriate language developmental milestones, they may have a language delay. Speech delay can be expected for some, but for others, it may result in difficulties with self-expression or understanding. It is essential to recognise and address delays as soon as possible to enable your child's development of critical language and cognitive skills.

Age-appropriate Speech and Language Milestones

Before observing your child's progress, it’s helpful to grasp the common stages of speech and language development. Every child develops at their unique pace, yet these milestones offer a helpful guideline. Here are the typical speech development milestones for most children at various ages: 

What are the Signs of a Speech Delay in Babies?

If your child experiences a language delay, they will not achieve language milestones at the usual age. The specific symptoms and missed milestones vary based on their age and the type of language delay they have. However, recognising these speech delay symptoms can help you to take timely action. Some of these symptoms are: 

By 12 months

• Doesn't say "mama" or "dada".
• The child isn't using gestures like pointing or waving bye-bye.
• Not pointing at interesting things like a bird or an aeroplane overhead.

By 18 months

• They prefer gestures to vocalisations for communication and struggle to imitate sounds.
• They also have difficulty understanding simple verbal requests.

By 2 years

• Can't follow simple, one-step directions
• They can only imitate speech or actions and don't produce words or phrases spontaneously.
• They repeat some sounds or words without using oral language for more than immediate needs.
• Doesn't pretend with their toys (like brushing their doll's hair or making car noises with a toy car).

Symptoms may differ based on age. Parents or caregivers observing these signs should consult a speech-language pathologist. These professionals can assess and treat speech delays and offer suitable referrals if other developmental concerns arise.

Speech Delay Causes in Toddlers

Toddler speech delay can arise from various factors, and it is crucial to identify the cause of speech and language delay to ensure effective treatment. Below are some of the common causes of speech delay in babies:

• Hearing Loss or Problems: A baby's inability to hear properly impacts their learning ability and response to sound. 
• Developmental Delays: Children with developmental delays, such as gross motor or cognitive delays, may also experience speech and language delays.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): ASD is a developmental disorder that may impact speech and language development, as well as social interaction. 
• Lack of Exposure to Language: Children lacking regular exposure to language may struggle to develop their speech and language abilities. 
• Bilingualism: Exposure to multiple languages can cause temporary speech delays in babies, but bilingualism does not result in long-term delays.
• Oral-motor Problems: These issues encompass challenges in coordinating the muscles necessary for speaking, including the lips, tongue, and jaw.

Speech Delay Treatment

Treatments for speech delays vary based on the underlying cause and the child's requirements. Early recognition and treatment of speech and language delays is best. Below are some treatments that you can approach to help with speech delay:

How Does Speech Therapy Help?

A certified speech-language pathologist works with children to improve their speech and language skills. The pathologist helps the child develop the skills to understand and use language effectively. Therapy may include fun-based activities, sound exercise, and engaging speaking methods suited to the child's age and developmental stage.

Home Activities and Exercises for Supporting Late Speech Development

Parents and caregivers significantly contribute to their child's speech and language growth. Below are some home activities and exercises that can help in this development:

• Reading Books: Making your child read books can increase their vocabulary and comprehension skills. This may help them recognise the pictures and develop their ability to identify and express words.
• Singing Songs: Singing with your child is an enjoyable and effective way to promote speech and language development at home. Rhymes and melodies help expand vocabulary, enhance listening skills, and foster the repetition of sounds and words. Additionally, it strengthens the bond between parent and child, transforming learning into a playful activity. 
• Engaging in Playtime: Playtime is a favourite activity for children and can effectively support speech development. Toys that help with speech delay may include picture books, animal figurines, and puzzle play sets, allowing children to expand their vocabulary and sound recognition. Engaging in activities such as naming objects, making animal noises,  or role-playing with toys turns enjoyable moments into valuable learning experiences.

Pro Tip: Getting in touch with speech therapists or developmental experts online can be expensive sometimes. That's where Health Insurance comes in. With our FREE E-consultation, you can easily seek expert advice without the financial stress, allowing you to concentrate fully on your child's progress. 

Final Word from One Parent to Another!

Every child discovers their voice at their own pace. As a parent, trusting your instincts and staying informed is crucial. Recognising the signs of speech delays, seeking suitable support, and encouraging a language-rich, playful environment can significantly benefit your child. Remember that you are not alone in this journey; with proper care, your child can recover from speech delays swiftly. After all, when it comes to your child's voice, every word is worth waiting for.

Disclaimer: The above information is for reference purposes only. Kindly consult your general physician for verified medical advice. The health insurance benefits are subject to policy terms and conditions. Refer to your policy documents for more information.