“How can I tell if my baby has speech problems?”
I think my baby has speech problems. Right now, she's only making sounds but she's also a little over 2 years old. I feel like she should be talking. Should I continue to wait? Or do you think I should take her to a specialist?
14 Answers
Do not wait. Early intervention is key. Have your pediatrician refer to speech therapy in your local area.
If she is not saying any words by 2, I would recommend taking her to a developmental pediatrician who can assess her and refer you to a speech pathologist or other interventionist as appropriate. Most children use and understand at least 50 words by 2 (even if not clearly articulated) and are beginning to combine two words (e.g., big dog, mama do).
Yes, I would have your child evaluated by a speech language pathologist. By age two, a child should be using 2 word phrases. A speech pathologist will be able to help determine what is going on and how to help your child communicate.
Kimberly Baradei
Speech-Language Pathologist
Hi! Thanks for reaching out. Children typically develop their first words around the age of 1. I would suggest discussing your concern with your pediatrician and requesting Speech therapy for your child. All the best, Kim Baradei
When in doubt, have your child screened. May private practice Speech Pathologists will screen your child for free and determine if your child needs additional testing. You can also contact your State's Early Intervention program.
Definitely seek the help of a specialist. We expect kids to say first words by about 12 months, and combine words into little sentences by the age of 2. My website has developmental norms you can reference to see what is expected at what age. https://www.zahavafriedmanspeech.com/resources
Jasmine Christion
Speech-Language Pathologist
Hello, is she able to use 1-3 words in utterance? Answer yes/no questions, understand in and on, or have at least 50 words in her vocabulary? If you can't answer yes to any of these questions, I recommend that you reach out to a speech-language pathologist soon. Thanks
A child of two should be doing a lot more than producing sounds. Please seek a speech language pathologist and also get her ears checked by an ENT to assure there is no compacted wax or fluid in middle ears.
Hello,
My advice is to never wait, she is at the stage of major language acquisition. Request your pediatrician a prescription for a speech and language evaluation.
My advice is to never wait, she is at the stage of major language acquisition. Request your pediatrician a prescription for a speech and language evaluation.
Dear Family,
By age 2, your toddler should be using at least 50 words, be understood by family members at least half the time, use simple 2 word phrases (go bye bye), and ask simple questions (Where dada?). If your 2-year-old has not met these milestones, further evaluation is needed. In addition to assessment by a Speech Language Pathologist, your pediatrician may also want to rule out additional concerns with hearing, developmental concerns, motor (muscle) impairment, autism, metabolic or genetic concerns. In the United States, free assessment and therapy is provided for all children birth to three years of age through the Early Steps program. Contact your nearest health department for more information regarding this. Remember that the earlier intervention begins, the better for the child's future. Call for a speech and language assessment as soon as possible.
Best regards,
Debra Beckman, MS, CCC-SLP
By age 2, your toddler should be using at least 50 words, be understood by family members at least half the time, use simple 2 word phrases (go bye bye), and ask simple questions (Where dada?). If your 2-year-old has not met these milestones, further evaluation is needed. In addition to assessment by a Speech Language Pathologist, your pediatrician may also want to rule out additional concerns with hearing, developmental concerns, motor (muscle) impairment, autism, metabolic or genetic concerns. In the United States, free assessment and therapy is provided for all children birth to three years of age through the Early Steps program. Contact your nearest health department for more information regarding this. Remember that the earlier intervention begins, the better for the child's future. Call for a speech and language assessment as soon as possible.
Best regards,
Debra Beckman, MS, CCC-SLP
At 2 years old, she should have 2-word combinations and a stranger should be able to understand about half of what she says. If she is not meeting communication milestones, early intervention is key! Speech therapy could be a big help!
It doesn't hurt to consult with a Speech Language Pathologist. It is great that she is making sounds. At 2 years old, most children have about 50 words in their expressive vocabulary and is beginning to combine words into 2-word phrases.
By 2 years of age your child can have anywhere from 50-100 words; yes, sometimes there are delays and early intervention helps! Yes I would advise bringing your child in for a speech therapy evaluation.
Hi there,
I would seek out a speech and language evaluation from a local speech language pathologist. All children blossom at their own time; however, typically at 2 years old, a child should be putting 2 words together (e.g,. hi baby, more ball, etc.).
I hope all goes well!
Ali Matisse, MS CCC-SLP
I would seek out a speech and language evaluation from a local speech language pathologist. All children blossom at their own time; however, typically at 2 years old, a child should be putting 2 words together (e.g,. hi baby, more ball, etc.).
I hope all goes well!
Ali Matisse, MS CCC-SLP
