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Speech refers to the verbal expression and articulation of language. Language refers to understanding and being understood through communication, be it verbal or non-verbal. <br>
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Understanding Speech and Language delays Speech refers to the verbal expression and articulation of language. Language refers to understanding and being understood through communication, be it verbal or non-verbal. A child with a speech delay may not be able to articulate words at all, or may articulate in a way that is hard to understand. On the other hand, a child with a language delay may know how to articulate words, but may not do so adequately or correctly when communicating. A child may have a speech delay, or a speech and language delay combined. Some causes include: • oral impairments • poor control over mouth and face muscles • hearing problems • illnesses that affect the speech centre of the brain
Understanding Speech Therapy Speech Therapy refers to the assessment and treatment of communication disorders related to speech and language. It may take place in a classroom setting or through one-on-one sessions, depending on your child’s needs. Some of the exercises that a speech therapist might use include: • using picture books to develop language • spoken interaction through play • modeling correct sounds and syllables to improve articulation
Signs that your child may need Speech Therapy A delay in speech or language doesn’t necessarily mean that there is something wrong. Your child may simply be a late developer. However, certain signs merit a closer look and may indicate a need for Speech Therapy for children. Here are some milestones to look out for. • 6 months – Babies should ideally start babbling between 4 and 7 months of age • 12 months – Most children should be able to nod and shake their heads, gesture towards things, and wave their hands. These are signs of grasping the basics of communication • 12-24 months – At this age, children should be able to understand simple verbal requests, like ‘sit down’. An inability to understand what you want of them could indicate a language delay. • 24 months – Most children will string together 2 or 3 words, such as “drink milk” or “play ball”. Make note if your child is not vocalizing, or is not speaking independently unless spoken to, or has a raspy or nasal tone of voice
Signs that your child may need Speech Therapy 5. Above 36 months – Children aged 3 and above will usually speak a lot of words, most of which are intelligible 6. 48 months and above – Between the ages of 2 and 4, it becomes most obvious if your child needs assistance. Low levels of interaction, frequently using the wrong words, or not answering questions correctly are signs to watch out for While missed milestones at earlier ages are not necessarily a cause for alarm, it is important to take action and sign your child up for Speech Therapy if the problems continue at 24 months of age and beyond. Enrolling your child in Speech and Language Therapy will help them acquire fluency in language, articulate sounds better, and communicate effectively, while also boosting their confidence.
