This is general information, not a diagnosis. Only a qualified professional can say whether a child has a speech or language delay.
Most children learn to talk without anyone teaching them directly. Some start late, or find words and sentences hard, and a few need extra help. This guide explains what to look for, and what to do, in India.
Speech and language are different
Speech is how sounds and words are made. Language is understanding what is said, and putting words together to share ideas. A child can have difficulty with one, the other, or both. Speech and language therapists (also called speech pathologists) work with both.
Late talkers
Speech Pathology Australia describes “late talkers” as toddlers who are late to begin talking and using words, with no known cause such as an intellectual disability or autism. It says that most children learn to talk without direct teaching, but some need extra support from a speech pathologist. It also says that it is hard to tell which late-talking toddlers will go on to have continuing difficulties, so it advises getting a professional opinion early, rather than waiting to see.
Signs worth a conversation with a doctor
- Little use of gestures, such as waving or pointing.
- Not responding when their name is called.
- Few words, or very few word combinations, compared with other children of the same age.
- Difficulty understanding simple things you say.
- Frustration because they cannot get their message across.
- Losing words or skills they used to have. This is a reason to see a doctor promptly.
You do not need to be certain before you ask. If something worries you, it is reasonable to raise it.
What to do
- Talk to your paediatrician or family doctor. Ask for a developmental screening, and ask whether your child’s hearing should be checked.
- Ask for a referral to a speech and language therapist. For children up to six years old, India’s RBSK programme screens children and refers them to a District Early Intervention Centre at the district hospital, where services for the selected conditions are meant to be free. What is available differs by district. See early signs of developmental delay and where to get help in India.
- Check the therapist’s registration. The Rehabilitation Council of India registers audiologists and speech therapists, among other rehabilitation professionals, and its Act says that, with limited exceptions, only registered people with a recognised qualification may practise as rehabilitation professionals. Ask for the therapist’s registration details. See who supports children with additional needs in India.
- Help at home while you wait. Speech Pathology Australia suggests reading to your child regularly, commenting on the pictures, and using gestures to bring out the meaning of words. Play together, follow your child’s interests, and give your child time to respond.
- Keep notes. Write down what your child can say and understand, and keep a short video if you can. It helps the therapist.
Questions to ask the therapist
- What did you find, and what does it mean for my child?
- What is the plan, how often will we meet, and how will we know that it is working?
- What can I do at home?
- Can you write recommendations for the school? See how to read your child’s assessment report.
Sources
- Speech Pathology Australia, Late talkers: toddlers who are late to talk.
- Government of India, The Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992, and the Rehabilitation Council of India, registration in the Central Rehabilitation Register.
- Vikaspedia (Government of India), Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK).
This guide is general information, not legal, medical or professional advice. If something here does not match your situation, please speak to a qualified professional.