“Should I be worried if my 16-month-old isn't talking?”
My daughter is 16 months old and she is not talking. Should I be worried if my 16-month-old isn't talking?
5 Answers
Every child is different and it's difficult to say if you should be worried or not. I often recommend for parents of young children, if they are concerned to consult with a local speech pathologist or speak with their pediatrician. I am attaching a link to our milestone chart: https://doubletalktherapy.com/milestones/
Does your child attempt to communicate nonverbally and understand what you are saying to her? Have you had her hearing evaluated? Talk with your pediatrician to schedule a hearing evaluation and get a referral for a speech/language evaluation to rule out a delay. The early head start program in California (Regional Center) offers free evaluations and therapy for children under three years of age. You also can call your medical insurance to see if speech and language evaluations are covered.
Yes, you should see a speech pathologist to determine what may be the cause
and get speech therapy. Early intervention is very important
and get speech therapy. Early intervention is very important
Kimberly Baradei
Speech-Language Pathologist
Thanks for reaching out! If you have any concerns at all, please get them evaluated by a Speech Language Pathologist. A 16-month-old should have a few solid words at least. The earlier the intervention, the faster the recovery to average functioning. Hope this helps.
If your 16 month old is not yet talking, oftentimes between 15-18 months kiddos will begin using words. You’re always welcome to take your child in for a language evaluation with a Speech Therapist, but you can also wait a few more months and see if your child begins speaking by then. If by 18 months there has been no change or very little change, I would definitely recommend you go see a Speech Therapist. :)
