Speech and Language Disorders in Children: Myths vs. Facts

A Parent’s Journey: Breaking Myths, Embracing Facts

Rohan was three years old, a curious and energetic child who loved racing his toy cars. But unlike his peers who were speaking in full sentences, Rohan struggled to combine even two words. “He’s just a late bloomer,” said his grandmother. “Boys talk late,” reassured a neighbor. Though his parents wanted to believe them, their concern lingered.

At a family gathering, Rohan’s cousin—two months younger—recited rhymes fluently. The comparison unsettled Neha, Rohan’s mother. “Maybe he just needs more time,” she thought, but a nagging worry made her seek professional help. She booked a consultation with a speech-language pathologist.

Myth #1: “Boys Talk Late; It’s Normal”
During the session, Neha voiced what many had told her. Dr. Aisha, the speech therapist, smiled gently. “That’s a common belief, but not always true. While some boys may speak slightly later than girls, by age three, children should generally be speaking in short sentences. If not, we should check for any underlying issue.”

Neha realized that waiting based on popular sayings could delay critical support for Rohan.

Myth #2: “If a Child Understands Everything, They’ll Speak Eventually”
Dr. Aisha noticed Rohan followed instructions well. Neha felt hopeful. “Since he understands us, he’ll talk soon, right?”
“Understanding and expressing language are two different skills,” Dr. Aisha explained. “Many children with speech delays understand but struggle to express. The longer we wait, the more that gap can widen.”

Neha understood then that comprehension wasn’t enough—expression mattered too.

Myth #3: “Speech Therapy is Only for Severe Cases”
“Is therapy necessary?” Neha asked. “Rohan’s not that bad.”
Dr. Aisha nodded. “Speech therapy helps all children with communication difficulties—mild or severe. Early support makes a huge difference in helping children communicate with confidence.”

This shifted Neha’s thinking—speech therapy wasn’t just for ‘serious’ cases.

Myth #4: “Gestures or Signs Delay Speech”
When Dr. Aisha introduced gestures and picture boards, Neha hesitated. “Won’t signs stop him from talking?”
“Not at all,” said Dr. Aisha. “Alternative methods encourage communication, reduce frustration, and often motivate speech.”

Neha felt reassured. She now saw gestures as a stepping stone, not a barrier.

Myth #5: “Bilingualism Causes Delays”
Rohan was exposed to both Hindi and English at home. Some family members blamed this for his delay.
“Bilingualism doesn’t cause speech delays,” clarified Dr. Aisha. “It may take slightly longer to develop vocabulary, but it doesn’t cause disorders. In fact, bilingual kids often gain cognitive benefits.”

Neha felt relieved. Language diversity at home wasn’t harming Rohan—it was enriching him.

Myth #6: “They Will Outgrow It”
“Some say he’ll grow out of it,” Neha shared.
“Some do, but many don’t,” said Dr. Aisha. “Without support, a minor delay can affect school, social life, and confidence. Early action prevents bigger problems later.”

Neha was grateful she had acted when she did.

A Brighter Future
With therapy and home activities, Rohan started making progress. By age four, he was speaking confidently. His parents were proud they hadn’t waited.

Now, Neha shares her story with others, helping parents recognize the signs and break harmful myths. Her message is simple: Don’t wait. Seek help early. Every child deserves the chance to communicate and thrive.