Speech and Language Development Red Flags - Podcast
Updated: Aug 25
In this article we will discuss:
Join Better Speech on the new episode of the On My Motha Podcast, where we discuss the signs that parents need to be looking for in their children, the importance of early intervention, and what parents can do to help their little ones to communicate more effectively.
Listen to the podcast using one of the players below:
Episode highlights
As parents and as guardians of little ones, what we're constantly ensuring is that we have strong communication with our children, and ensuring that their speech and language development is effective. And it's happening with those milestones that we want. And if not, what are some of the signs that we need to be looking for.
Is it never too late to reach out to the speech therapist, however, the earlier you do it - the better. Some of the red flags to pay attention to:
- Your little one isn't noticing your sounds
- They are not able to start following directions
- They're producing different sounds, or they're not saying sounds,
- They're cutting off the words or speaking in vowels
Looking for a convenient speech therapy solution?
Some things to look out for in middle school or high schoolers are when they can't produce a story. What we're looking for is the details:
- Can they tell you the story?
- Can they tell you the story in that sequence?
- What is the vocabulary they're using?
You'll start to see that children who become aware that they're not clearly communicating, they have their mouth close, they mumble, and they're not going to be very expressive, they're going to be quieter because they know they're not as clear.
Parents don't get to talk to a school speech therapist, they don't know what speech therapists are doing and how to help their kids at home. Whereas with Better Speech, speech therapy sessions are online, parents can ask anything they want, and they can also use Practice Library to help their children's language development while playing fun games.
So if you have any concerns, absolutely reach out to a speech therapist. At Better Speech, we offer online speech therapy services convenient for you and tailored to your child's individual needs. Our services are affordable and effective - get Better Speech now.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common speech and language red flags parents should watch for in toddlers?
Common red flags include not babbling by 12 months, not saying single words by 16 months, not combining two words by age 2, and losing language skills at any age. If your child is not making eye contact, responding to their name, or pointing to objects, those are also important signs to take seriously. Trust your instincts and consult a speech-language pathologist early.
At what age should I be concerned if my child is not talking yet?
Most children say their first words between 12 and 18 months, and by age 2 they typically use around 50 words and begin combining them. If your child is not meeting these milestones, it is a good time to seek an evaluation rather than wait and see. Early intervention consistently leads to better outcomes, so do not hesitate to reach out to a professional.
Is it normal for boys to start talking later than girls?
There is some research suggesting girls may develop language slightly earlier on average, but a significant delay should never be dismissed as normal for boys. A late talker of any gender deserves a proper evaluation by a licensed speech-language pathologist. Using gender as a reason to delay seeking help can mean missing a critical window for early support.
How do I get my child evaluated for a speech delay without a long wait?
Many families struggle to find timely help through traditional clinics. Better Speech offers access to licensed speech-language pathologists online, with no waitlists and insurance-ready care, so you can get started quickly from home. Simply schedule a consultation, and a qualified therapist will assess your child and create a personalized plan that fits your family's schedule.
Can watching the speech and language red flags podcast replace a professional evaluation?
The podcast is a fantastic starting point for learning what signs to look for and when to act, but it is not a substitute for a one-on-one evaluation with a certified speech-language pathologist. Professionals can observe your child directly, ask detailed questions, and identify the root cause of any concerns. Use the podcast to get informed, then take that next step and book a real evaluation.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
