POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 5 m old boy6 months agoA. If your 4-year-old child is not speaking or has very limited speech, it’s important to take early action. Here’s what you can do:
1. Get a Hearing and Speech Evaluation First, check your child's hearing. Sometimes, speech delays are due to hearing issues. Visit a speech therapist for an evaluation to understand if it's a speech delay or speech disorder. 2. Encourage Communication Talk more: Describe everything you do in simple words. Example: “We are eating an apple.” Read books daily: Choose picture books and point out objects, colors, and animals. Sing rhymes and songs: Fun and repetitive words help improve speech. Ask questions: Encourage responses, even if they are gestures. 3. Reduce Screen Time Too much mobile or TV time can slow down speech development. Replace screen time with real-life interactions and play. 4. Use Play-Based Learning Play with toys that encourage talking, like puppets or dolls. Act out simple role-play scenarios like cooking, shopping, or driving. 5. Encourage Social Interaction Let your child play with other kids, which encourages natural communication. Join a preschool or playgroup to expose them to more language. 6. Use Gestures and Sign Language If speech is delayed, use gestures, pointing, or basic sign language to help them express themselves. 7. Be Patient and Give Time Don’t pressure your child. Celebrate small progress and encourage every attempt.
If your child is not making any effort to speak or only says a few words, consult a pediatrician and speech therapist as early intervention is key.
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