When should I start speech therapy?
⚡ Short answer: In speech development, 'waiting' is usually not right; early intervention always gives better results.
Anonymous
bir anne · Development
My child's speech is behind their peers. What age or signs should I wait for before seeking speech therapy?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
In speech development, 'waiting' is usually not right; early intervention always gives better results. If I had to set a clear limit:
- 12 months: no meaningful single word (like 'mom,' 'dad,' 'water' as sustained use with consistent meaning), not communicating with gestures
- 18 months: fewer than 5-10 words, not imitating what they hear
- 24 months: fewer than 50 words, not combining two words to make sentences (like 'mom come,' 'give ball')
- 30-36 months: most of what they say isn't understood by others, struggling to make complex sentences
True warning signs regardless of age:
- There's a regression in language skills (losing words they used to say)
- They've never spoken but aren't communicating any other way (pointing, head shaking, showing like gestures)
- Social cues are weak (eye contact, shared attention (looking where you look), responding to their name)
- Behavior problems like excessive frustration, hitting, biting come with it
In these situations, you should see a child developmentalist or speech-language therapist regardless of how old your child is. A hearing test shouldn't be skipped either because a child who doesn't hear can't speak. Instead of waiting, getting an evaluation and being told 'normal' is much safer than waiting.
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
This answer is general — yours can be personal 🐦
In the app, Maiyko AI knows your baby's age and records and gives you a tailored answer. Coming soon to the App Store.