Speech delay can be defined as a child’s inability to demonstrate verbal expression skills expected for their age. It may present as being unable to speak at all, using fewer words than expected for age, or being unable to form sentences. In order to recognize speech delay, it is necessary to understand the stages of language development in children.
Although normal language development varies among children, it generally follows a specific sequence. In infants, cooing begins after the 2nd month, followed by babbling between 4–6 months. The first meaningful words typically appear around the age of 1, and the number of words gradually increases until 18 months. By age 2, children begin to form simple two-word sentences; by age 3, their speech is largely understandable to others.
There are common misconceptions regarding speech delay, such as the belief that “one should wait until age 4” or that “it is normal in boys.” Due to these beliefs, families may delay seeking professional help, which can result in late identification of important disorders. Contrary to these misconceptions, speech delay is a significant condition that must be evaluated by a specialist.
Speech delay may have many different causes. The most common is developmental speech delay. However, one important condition to consider in children with speech delay is the presence of autism symptoms, as autism is one of the major causes of delayed speech.
Autism is a disorder characterized by deficits in social interaction, impairments in communication skills, and repetitive behaviors.
Signs to Consider for Autism in Children with Speech Delay
- Limited or absent eye contact
- Not responding to smiling
- Rarely or never looking at your face when spoken to
- Not responding when their name is called
- Not following where you point
- Not sharing interests by pointing or showing objects
- Preferring to spend time alone rather than playing with you or other children
- Not imitating your behaviors
- Not looking at objects you point to
- Repetitive movements such as rocking or spinning
Early identification of autism and early initiation of intervention improve treatment outcomes. Children with speech delay should not be told “they will speak when they grow up,” and a specialist should be consulted without delay.
Dr Mehmet Çolak, SpecialistChild and Adolescent Psychiatrist