Language Delay
- Helping little ones, one word at a time -
Does my child have a language delay?
While talking with your child, you may notice they struggle to fully participate in conversations, making you wonder:
- Does my child understand what I am saying to them?​
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- Does my child have the words and concepts to express themselves?
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- Should I be worried?
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- Will they catch up?
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- What can I do to help my kiddo?
It is good to be curious and you are not the only parent that has had these thoughts go through their head. If your little is not able to participate in conversations and activities as expected they many benefit from support form a speech therapist and we are here for you!
What is a language delay?
A language delay is when a child has difficulty understanding or using spoken language at a level that is significantly below what is expected for their age.
A child with a language delay may struggle with comprehending words, forming sentences, or expressing themselves, compared to other children their age.
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Receptive language is a child’s ability to understand and process spoken language.
It includes skills like:
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following directions
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understanding questions
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recognizing words and concepts​
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Children with receptive language difficulties may struggle to comprehend what others say, which can impact learning and communication.
What is receptive language?
What is expressive language?
Expressive language is a child’s ability to use words, sentences, and gestures to communicate their thoughts, needs, and ideas.
It includes skills like:
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forming sentences
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using vocabulary correctly
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telling stories.
Children with expressive language difficulties may struggle to put words together, use proper grammar, or express themselves clearly.
Key Language Milestones
Developmental milestones can help you know what to expect as your child grows and develops
By 2 Years
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Puts two words together (e.g., "my hat")
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Points to objects when named.
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Uses words like me, mine and you
By 3 Years
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Uses 1,000+ words
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Forms short sentences (e.g., "I want milk")
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Follows two-step directions (e.g., "Get your shoes and your coat")
By 4 years
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Speaks in longer sentences (4+ words)
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Asks and answers simple questions
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Tells short stories
By 5 years
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Uses complex sentences with correct grammar
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Tells detailed stories and holds conversation
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Understands and uses basic concept, such as time (e.g., "yesterday", "tomorrow")
Signs your child may have a language delay...
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Limited Vocabulary - Uses fewer words than other children their age
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Trouble Understanding Language - Doesn’t follow simple directions or respond to questions appropriately
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Frustration with Communication – Gets upset when unable to express needs
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Delayed Sentence Formation - Uses short or incomplete sentences beyond age 3
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Difficulty Engaging in Conversations – Struggles with turn-taking or staying on topic
If you notice these signs, a speech therapist can help determine if specific support is needed for your child.
The Power of Early Intervention
The "wait and see" approach is great if you're watching the stars—but when it comes to your child’s speech and language development, research shows that early intervention leads to the best outcomes. Taking action now can make a meaningful difference in your child’s ability to communicate effectively.
Our Therapy Services
At True North SLP, we are committed to understanding your child’s communication challenges so we can help set them up for success. Every child deserves the opportunity to confidently express themselves, and we are here to support them every step of the way.
In-Home Therapy Sessions
Therapy sessions in your home allows your child to learn in a familiar setting, making sessions more effective and convenient.
Ongoing Parent Support
We aim to empower parents with resources and strategies to support their child beyond the therapy session.
Personalized Goals
After a comprehensive assessment, we develop personalized goals tailored to your child's specific area of needs and challenges.
Flexible Scheduling
Book speech therapy sessions that fits your busy schedule, so therapy works seamlessly into your life.
Engaging Therapy Sessions
We strive to create therapy sessions that incorporate your child's interests while working towards their goals in a structured manner.
Knowledgeable SLPs
We are dedicated to helping your child reach their full potential through joy and evidence-based practice.
Getting Started is Easy...
Share information about your child and your primary concerns.
We aim to respond to your speech therapy request within 1-2 business days.
Get connected with an SLP
Discuss with a speech therapist what you hope to achieve through therapy sessions. As well, gain insights into how we can help.
Start Speech Therapy
Begin personalized speech therapy sessions in your home that support your child's unique communication needs.
At True North SLP, we are here to guide and support your child’s journey to confident communication.
Let’s go on this journey together!