#asktheexperts speech delay

1 Answer

POOJA KOTHARIMom of a 8 yr 6 m old boy6 months ago

A. At 2 years and 4 months, a child should typically be saying at least 50 words and starting to form two-word phrases like “want milk” or “go park.” If there is a speech delay, it’s important to understand the possible causes and take steps to help. Possible Reasons for Speech Delay Hearing Issues – If a child has had frequent ear infections or difficulty responding to sounds, a hearing test is essential. Lack of Interaction – Limited communication or excessive screen time can slow speech development. Oral-Motor Issues – Some children have difficulty coordinating the muscles needed for speech. Developmental Disorders – Conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or speech apraxia can affect speech. Bilingual Exposure – If the child is learning more than one language, they may take a little longer to start speaking. What You Can Do to Help Reduce screen time and encourage real-life interaction. Talk more to your child using simple and clear sentences. Read books together and describe pictures. Sing rhymes and songs with actions to make learning fun. Give choices (e.g., "Do you want an apple or a banana?") to encourage verbal responses. Encourage imitation by repeating sounds and words your child attempts to say. Seek professional help if there’s little progress by age 3. A speech therapist can provide targeted exercises to improve speech.