#asktheexpert my daughter still not talking doctor

A. It’s understandable to be concerned about your 1 year 8 months old daughter not talking yet. While some children develop language skills earlier than others, there can be a range of normal when it comes to speech development. However, there are a few factors to consider: Possible Reasons: Individual Developmental Pace: Children develop at different rates. Some kids start speaking a bit later but catch up quickly. Hearing Issues: Ensure your child’s hearing is normal. Sometimes, if a child has difficulty hearing, it can delay their speech development. Environmental Factors: Interaction plays a key role. If a child is not exposed to much conversation or has fewer opportunities to imitate sounds, speech might be delayed. What You Can Do: Encourage Communication: Talk to your child constantly. Describe what you are doing, name objects, and make eye contact. Reading books together and singing songs can help develop language skills. Encourage Imitation: Gently encourage your child to imitate sounds and gestures. You can play games where she mimics actions or sounds. Check for Other Signs: Observe if she responds to sounds, her name, and whether she understands simple commands (e.g., “come here” or “give me the toy”). When to Seek Professional Help: If she isn't making any sounds or showing interest in communication, or if there are other concerns such as poor social interaction or a lack of understanding, it’s a good idea to follow up with your doctor. A speech therapist or a pediatrician may evaluate her development and suggest interventions if needed. Speech delays are not uncommon, but early support can make a significant difference in helping her catch up.