Top 5 Signs of Speech Delay in Toddlers

Identifying speech delay in toddlers early on can significantly benefit their communication and cognitive development. Here are five critical signs to watch for:

1. Lack of Babbling

By 12 months, most babies should be babbling. If your child is unusually quiet or not making consonant-vowel sounds, this could be an early sign of speech delay.

2. Limited Words by Age 2

A two-year-old should typically have at least 50 words and be forming two-word phrases. If your toddler struggles to use words or only uses a few, speech therapy may be helpful.

3. Difficulty Following Simple Instructions

If your toddler is not responding to simple commands like "come here" or "sit down," this could indicate a language comprehension delay.

4. Trouble Making Sounds Clearly

By age 3, most children can pronounce basic sounds. If your child is still struggling with clear articulation, it might be time for an evaluation.

5. Lack of Interest in Social Interaction

If your toddler avoids eye contact, doesn't respond to their name, or seems uninterested in engaging with others, this could be a sign of a communication challenge.

If you notice any of these signs, an early intervention speech therapist can help your child develop better communication skills.