My 21 months baby didn’t speak speech delay why

Question

Accepted Answer

the child will be able to say meaningful words by 15 months to 18 months of age and by 2 years of age the child will be able to say 2 or 3 words with meaning in a sentence.
sometimes the child may not be able to talk but the child would be able to understand and follow xthe commands and orders given by the parents. 
if you feel that the child is having some delay it is advisable to meet the pediatrician who will decide if the child requires any therapyx or not in the form of speech therapy as well as other modes of therapy for development in social and language milestone.

Accepted Answer

Speech delays in toddlers can be concerning, but there are various reasons why a 21-month-old might not be speaking as expected. Here are some common factors and steps you can take:

### Potential Causes of Speech Delay:

1. **Hearing Problems:**
   - Even mild hearing loss can affect a child's ability to learn to speak. If your child has had frequent ear infections or you suspect hearing issues, a hearing test is essential.

2. **Developmental Differences:**
   - Children develop at their own pace. Some may focus on motor skills or other areas before speech.

3. **Environmental Factors:**
   - Lack of exposure to language or interaction can delay speech development. This includes limited verbal interaction or screen time replacing human interaction.

4. **Family History:**
   - Speech and language delays can sometimes run in families.

5. **Medical Conditions:**
   - Conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental disorders, or other medical conditions can affect speech.

6. **Oral-Motor Issues:**
   - Problems with the mouth, tongue, or palate can interfere with speech development.

### Steps to Take:

1. **Consult a Pediatrician:**
   - Your first step should be to discuss your concerns with your pediatrician. They can conduct an initial evaluation and refer you to specialists if needed.

2. **Hearing Test:**
   - Schedule a hearing test to rule out any hearing issues that could be affecting speech development.

3. **Speech and Language Evaluation:**
   - A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine if there is a speech or language delay and create a treatment plan.

4. **Early Intervention Programs:**
   - Many regions have early intervention programs that offer services for children with developmental delays, including speech therapy. These services can be very beneficial and are often available at low or no cost.

5. **Encourage Communication:**
   - Engage in activities that promote language development:
     - **Talk and Read:** Narrate your activities, read books, and describe what you see and do together.
     - **Play:** Interactive play that encourages communication, like pretend play or playing with toys that require interaction (e.g., talking toys, puppets).
     - **Sing Songs and Rhymes:** Songs and nursery rhymes can help with language rhythm and vocabulary.
     - **Limit Screen Time:** Ensure that screen time is limited and instead focus on interactive activities.

6. **Model Speech:**
   - Speak clearly and slowly, using simple sentences. Encourage your child to repeat words and phrases.

7. **Positive Reinforcement:**
   - Praise and encourage your child’s efforts to communicate, even if they are not using words yet.

### Monitoring Progress:

- **Keep a Log:** Track your child's speech and language milestones and any concerns you have. This can help healthcare providers assess progress and identify any patterns or issues.
- **Regular Check-Ins:** Maintain regular follow-up appointments with your pediatrician and any specialists involved in your child's care.

### Conclusion:

Early identification and intervention are crucial in addressing speech delays. While it's essential to stay vigilant, remember that many children with speech delays go on to develop normal language skills with appropriate support. Consulting with healthcare professionals will provide the best guidance tailored to your child's needs.