Is My Child’s Speech and Language Development Delayed?

A Mother’s Journey of Discovery

Ananya watched her two-year-old son, Vihaan, play. Nearby, another child pointed at a bird and said, “Look, Mama! Bird flying!” Ananya’s heart sank. Vihaan rarely spoke. Was she overthinking, or was his speech delayed?

That night, she searched online for answers.

Understanding Typical Speech and Language Milestones

Children develop at their own pace, but general milestones include:
✅ By 6 months – Responds to sounds, coos, babbles. (Vihaan did this.)
❌ By 12 months – Says simple words like “mama” or “dada.” (Vihaan hadn’t.)
❌ By 18 months – Has 10–20 words, follows simple commands. (Vihaan mostly pointed.)
❌ By 2 years – Uses two-word phrases, knows 50+ words. (Vihaan only said “ba” and “da” without meaning.)

Ananya’s concern deepened.

Observing Signs of Speech Delay

She noticed:
• Limited vocabulary – Mostly gestures, few words.
• Lack of understanding – Didn’t respond to simple questions.
• Minimal babbling – Other toddlers were chatty; Vihaan was mostly silent.
• Difficulty imitating sounds – Didn’t try to copy words.

When a neighbour’s child asked Vihaan his name and he just stared, Ananya knew she had to act.

Speech vs. Language Delay

• Speech Delay – Difficulty forming sounds.
• Language Delay – Struggles with understanding or using words.

To test Vihaan, Ananya asked, “Point to the dog.” No response. “Say ‘ball.’” Silence. He had both speech and language delays.

Additional Red Flags

• No gestures by 12 months – No waving, pointing, clapping.
• Not responding to name by 12 months.
• No meaningful words by 18 months.
• Not combining words by 2 years.
• Difficulty following simple instructions.
• Trouble forming sentences by 3 years.

The signs were clear: Vihaan needed help.

Seeking Help from a Speech-Language Pathologist

Ananya consulted an SLP. After evaluation, the SLP confirmed a speech and language delay. “Early intervention makes a big difference,” she reassured. Relief washed over Ananya—there was hope.

Supporting Speech and Language Development

The SLP initiated Speech and Language Therapy and recommended specific strategies for home training.
• Talk – Describe daily activities.
• Use Speech Sound Cue Cards – Show pictures, name objects.
• Ask “Wh” Questions – Encourage interaction.
• Read Stories – Picture books improve vocabulary.
• Encourage Gestures – Build communication skills.
• Sing Songs & Rhymes – Reinforce speech patterns.

Ananya followed these strategies. Within weeks, Vihaan said his first real word: “Ball!” Her heart soared.

Final Thoughts: When to Seek Help

Early identification is key. If your child shows any of these red flags, consult a specialist.

Conclusion: Stay Aware, Stay Proactive

Ananya’s worries turned into action, leading to progress. Vihaan wasn’t just a “late talker”—he needed support. Thanks to early intervention, patience, and daily practice, he is now a chatty three-and-a-half-year-old.

If you suspect a delay, don’t wait. Seek help and support your child’s journey to confident communication.

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