Late Talkers versus Delayed Speech
A late talker simply needs more time to start speaking, while a speech or language delay means a child needs extra support to catch up on communication skills for their age. Building Futures Pediatric Therapy offers speech therapy at clinics in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston, LA, starting early when needed so children can build the skills they need with confidence.
Have you ever been concerned about your child’s development only to be told that they’ll do it “when they’re ready”? While it’s a common belief, this “wait and see” approach is not the best choice, especially when it comes to speech and language. But how can you tell if your child has a delay or if they are simply a late talker? Keep reading to find out what the difference is, why early intervention is crucial, and how our speech-language pathologists can help.
What Is a Speech or Language Delay?
A speech or language delay is when a child does not have the communication skills they should have achieved by their age. This is based on the average age most children reach these milestones—and because it’s an average, some experts believe that delays of a few months are normal and expected when they aren’t.
Signs and Symptoms of a Speech or Language Delay
The common signs of a speech or language delay include:
- Limited vocabulary for their age
- Difficulty forming sentences or expressing thoughts
- Challenges understanding and following directions
- Frustration or withdrawal during communication
- Trouble speaking clearly
- Not babbling or trying to make sound
What Is a Late Talker?
Because children do develop at their own pace, some may take longer to start speaking and using language—without any underlying conditions. This is why some experts recommend the “wait and see” method. But early speech and language milestones like babbling are vital for your child’s growth. The less practice they have with basic skills, the harder it will be for them to master more complex skills.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Speech Delay and a Late Talker
The only way to know for sure if your child is a late talker or if they have a delay is to begin therapy. If your child breezes through their therapy plan without struggle, they were probably just a late talker. But in many cases, we’ve found that children will struggle with some area of speech or language that our therapists can then address immediately.
Why Early Intervention Is Crucial for Speech and Language Delays
Speech and language are complex skills that lay the foundation for future learning. Even a slight delay in reaching milestones can compound over time and make it challenging for a child to catch up. Early intervention addresses these struggles to ensure children are well-prepared for school and have a solid foundation for success. If your child hasn’t started speaking words by 12 months old, we recommend you bring them to Building Futures for a speech and language screening.
How Speech Therapy Treats Speech and Language Delays
Our pediatric speech-language pathologists use proven, play-based therapy techniques to help children improve their speech and language skills. Through simple games, exercises, and other engaging activities, we empower children to communicate their ideas freely and give them the skills they need for success in all areas of life.
Free Developmental Screening
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, you can take advantage of our free online developmental screening. This tool is a convenient way for parents to know with certainty if your child is achieving their developmental milestones or if they need extra support to achieve their brightest future.
FreQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I know if my child is just a late talker?
A late talker may understand language well, play socially and slowly start adding words. A speech or language delay may include limited understanding of language, few gestures, frustration, trouble following directions or very slow progress. An evaluation can help determine whether your child is simply a late talker or may have a speech or language delay.
At what age should I be concerned about limited words?
Parents often start asking questions when a child is not using words around the age they are expected or is not adding new words over time. If your gut says communication is harder than it should be, it is reasonable to seek an evaluation.
Is waiting a few more months a bad idea?
Waiting is not always harmful, but it can delay support when a child really needs it. A therapy evaluation can give you clearer answers and practical next steps instead of guessing.
What does speech therapy do for late talkers?
Speech therapy can help your child build early communication through play, gestures, sounds, words, and routines. Parents also learn ways to create more natural chances for talking during everyday activities.
Can my child understand everything but still need speech therapy?
Yes. Some children understand much more than they can say. Therapy can help close that gap by building expressive language, confidence, and the ability to use words or phrases to communicate needs and ideas.