Every child progresses at different paces. This is why it is only natural for some parents to ignore or overlook a problem their toddler may be having regarding their speech. However, communication disorders are quite prevalent in America, and the key to treating this is to seek Speech Therapy in Salt Lake City Utah as soon as possible. In fact, according to experts, anytime a parent is concerned about their child’s speech, they should request a speech evaluation.
It can also be beneficial to learn what is and is not considered normal when it comes to speech development and language. Here are some signs it may be time to look into Speech Therapy in Salt Lake City Utah.
The Child Doesn’t Interact Socially
If a baby doesn’t smile or interact with others from infancy up to three months, it may be a sign they suffer from a language or speech disorder. There are some other signs that may indicate a problem with speech, as well. These include if an infant doesn’t babble between four and seven months, or if the baby only makes a few gestures or sounds between seven and 12 months. Also, an indication of a problem is if the infant doesn’t understand what its parents or anyone else is saying between the ages of seven months and two years old.
A Toddler Only Makes a few Gestures, Words, or Sounds
If a child is between the ages of 12 and 18 months and is only saying a few words or making a few signs, this may also indicate a problem. By the age of one and a half, most children are starting to put words together. If a child is not saying anything or has an extremely limited vocabulary, it may be signs of a speech disorder that needs to be treated.
The sooner treatment is sought for a speech or language problem, the better chance a parent has for eliminating it before they get older. More information about these services can be found by contacting the staff at Hand & Orthopedic Physical Therapy Specialists. Being informed will help ensure a child’s language or speech issue is fixed and does not affect them later in life.
