Every child develops communication skills at their own pace. Some children start talking early, while others take a little longer to find their words and express themselves.
But if you're noticing that your child is difficult to understand, isn't using as many words as expected, or becomes frustrated when trying to communicate, you may be wondering whether they need some extra support.
Knowing what to look for can help you decide whether it may be helpful to speak with a speech pathologist.
What Is the Difference Between Speech and Language?
Speech and language are closely connected, but they are not the same thing.
Speech refers to how a child produces sounds and words. For example, a child may have difficulty saying certain sounds or their speech may be difficult for other people to understand.
Language is how a child understands and uses communication. This includes learning words, putting words together, understanding instructions, answering questions and expressing thoughts and ideas.
A child can have difficulty with speech, language, or both.
Signs of a Possible Speech or Language Difficulty
There are many different signs that a child may benefit from additional support. The signs can also look different depending on their age and stage of development.
Some things parents may notice include:
Your child is difficult to understand
You may understand what your child is saying because you're familiar with them, but other family members, friends or teachers may struggle to understand them.
It is common for children's speech to become clearer as they develop. However, if you regularly find it difficult to understand your child, it may be worth discussing your concerns with a speech pathologist.
Your child uses fewer words than expected
You may notice that your child doesn't seem to be using as many words as other children their age or relies heavily on gestures to communicate.
Every child develops differently, but ongoing concerns about vocabulary can be a reason to seek professional advice.
Your child has difficulty putting words together
Some children may know what they want to say but have difficulty putting words together into sentences.
They might use very short phrases, leave out words or find it difficult to explain what happened during their day.
Your child has difficulty understanding instructions
Communication isn't only about speaking.
You may notice that your child has trouble understanding questions, following instructions or knowing what someone is asking them to do.
For example, they may regularly need instructions repeated or become confused when instructions contain more than one step.
Your child struggles to find the right words
Sometimes children know what they want to communicate but can't find the words they need.
They may point, use gestures, become frustrated or use a general word instead of the specific word they are looking for.
Your child becomes frustrated when communicating
Communication difficulties can be frustrating for children.
If your child regularly becomes upset because they can't explain what they want, tell you what happened or participate in conversations, this may be a sign that they need additional support.
Your child finds social communication difficult
Some children may have difficulty starting or maintaining conversations, taking turns when talking, understanding social cues or communicating with other children.
Social communication is an important part of building relationships at home, school and in the wider community.
Does Every Speech Difference Mean There Is a Problem?
Not necessarily.
Children develop at different rates, and there can be a wide range of normal development. A child who is taking longer to develop a particular skill does not automatically have a speech or language disorder.
This is one reason why it can be helpful to speak with a qualified speech pathologist rather than trying to compare your child too closely with other children.
An assessment can help you understand your child's individual communication strengths and identify whether additional support may be helpful.
When Should You Speak With a Speech Pathologist?
You don't need to wait until your child's communication difficulties are significantly affecting them before seeking advice.
It can be helpful to speak with a speech pathologist if:
You have ongoing concerns about your child's speech or language
Your child is difficult for other people to understand
Your child becomes frustrated when trying to communicate
Your child has difficulty understanding or following instructions
Your child is struggling to communicate with other children
Your child's teachers or carers have raised concerns
You feel that your child's communication skills are affecting their confidence or participation
Sometimes parents simply want reassurance that their child's development is progressing as expected. A conversation with a speech pathologist can help provide clarity and practical next steps.
What Happens During a Speech Pathology Assessment?
A speech pathology assessment is tailored to the individual child.
Your speech pathologist will want to understand your child's communication history, strengths, challenges and the situations where you have noticed difficulties.
Depending on your child's needs, the assessment may look at areas such as:
Speech sound production
Understanding language
Using language
Vocabulary
Sentence development
Following instructions
Social communication
Communication during play and everyday activities
The goal isn't simply to identify what your child finds difficult. Understanding their strengths is just as important.
The assessment can help your speech pathologist develop recommendations that are meaningful for your child and family.
Can Children Have Speech Therapy Online?
Depending on your child's needs, child speech therapy online can be an option for families who prefer the flexibility of telehealth.
Online therapy allows children to work with a speech pathologist through a video appointment from home or another suitable location.
Sessions can be adapted to your child's age, interests and communication goals and may include games, books, conversation and other interactive activities.
Telehealth can also make it easier for parents to be involved in sessions and learn strategies they can use with their child between appointments.
Why Early Support Can Be Helpful
If you're concerned about your child's communication, it can be tempting to wait and see whether they catch up on their own.
Sometimes they do. But seeking advice doesn't mean that your child will automatically need ongoing therapy.
Getting an assessment can simply help you understand where your child is at and what, if anything, could support their development.
If your child does benefit from speech therapy, starting with appropriate support can give them opportunities to develop communication skills and confidence in everyday situations.
Supporting Your Child's Communication
There are many ways parents can encourage communication during everyday activities.
Talking together, reading books, playing, singing songs and giving your child plenty of opportunities to communicate can all create valuable opportunities for language development.
Most importantly, try to focus on communication as a whole rather than expecting your child to speak perfectly.
Give them time to respond, listen to what they are trying to communicate and celebrate their attempts to connect with you.
When You're Not Sure, It's Okay to Ask
If you're wondering whether your child's speech or language development is on track, you don't have to work it out on your own.
A speech pathologist can help you understand your child's communication skills, answer your questions and provide personalised recommendations based on your child's individual needs.
At VK Speech Pathology, the focus is on providing personalised, supportive care that helps children develop their communication skills and confidence.
If you're concerned about your child's speech or language, contact VK Speech Pathology to discuss your concerns and find out whether an assessment could be helpful for your child.
