About the early symptoms and diagnosis of language delay

Today, we will learn about language delay, a topic that many parents are curious about and ask about, especially in children living in the United States.

Literally, language delay refers to a condition in which language development is delayed compared to peers, following the typical chronological order of language development but at a slower rate. For example, while children typically utter their first word around 12 months of age and begin to string two-word sentences together by 18 months, children with language delay may develop these skills later, failing to form two-word sentences by 24 months or with an expressive vocabulary of fewer than 50 words.

One of the biggest concerns for parents is whether this could lead to a language disorder. Language developmental disorders typically involve a child's development falling outside the normal developmental sequence or stalling at a certain stage.

What does language delay look like?

Although there may be differences between children, it is important to pay close attention if your child is not meeting the developmental standards for their age.

- 6 months : No babbling or response to sounds.

- 12 months : No meaningful words or lack of gestures for communication (pointing, waving, etc.).

- 18 months : Cannot call parent or other people by name or use at least 25 words.

- 24 months : Cannot form two-word sentences.

- 36 months : Vocabulary of expressions is less than 200 or cannot respond to simple questions.

- Ages 4 and older : Persistent difficulties in interacting and communicating with peers.

If your child has trouble understanding what others are saying or has difficulty using verbs in particular, this is considered an early sign of a language delay.

(For more information, please visit the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) >> l ink )

Bilingual children and language delay

Children who acquire bilingualism, especially at a young age, may exhibit language delays. It's important to understand that a bilingual environment itself doesn't cause language delays.

Bilingual children may experience some delays in certain developmental milestones as they acquire two languages simultaneously, but these delays are usually temporary and may vary depending on the level of exposure and frequency of use of both languages.

When should I be more concerned?

- 18 months : Unable to say at least one word or understand simple directions.

- 24 months : Unable to form two-word sentences or has a vocabulary of less than 50 words.

- 36 months : If the child has difficulty constructing simple sentences or if the child's comprehension and expression skills are significantly lower than those of their peers.

If delays occur in both languages, a language development disorder may be suspected. However, if difficulties are present only in one language, it's likely due to lack of exposure to that language or a learning process. Continue monitoring the development of both languages and determine how you can support their development.

When should I see a specialist? What criteria should I use to make the decision?

If your child still cannot use two words or simple sentences after age two, or if their comprehension or expressive skills are significantly lacking compared to their peers after age three, or if developmental delays are observed in both languages, professional consultation is recommended. When assessing a bilingual child's language development, experts consider the following criteria:

Assess both languages : When assessing a bilingual child's language abilities, both their native and second languages should be included. Assessing only one language risks underestimating the child's language abilities.

Consider the degree and duration of exposure : It's important to consider how frequently your child is exposed to both languages. If development is slow in both languages despite sufficient, long-term exposure, professional consultation is necessary.

- Parent Reports and Observations : Observations by parents or teachers determine how effectively the child communicates in everyday conversations.

(For more detailed criteria, please check the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) criteria >> l ink )

Diagnosis and Treatment

A variety of diagnostic tools are used to diagnose language delay. Representative examples include:

• SELSI (Speech Language Screening Test for Infants and Toddlers) : Evaluates the language development status of infants and toddlers.

• PRES (Preschool Receptive and Expressive Language Development Scale) : Measures children's receptive and expressive language skills

Additionally, auditory tests and cognitive development assessments are also performed to determine the cause of language delay.

Treatment is more effective the earlier it begins, and intervention is generally recommended before the age of three. Treatment methods include play therapy, pronunciation training, and language cognitive training. Parental involvement and providing stimulation at home are also important.

Are there any ways I can help my child at home?

Yes! Did you know that, depending on the severity of your child's language delay, simply interacting at home can significantly help their language development?

Parents can support their children's language development at home through interactive play, reading, or practicing therapies provided by professionals. We also feature many fun language development activities at home on our blog, so please refer to them.

- Language Cognition Boost! A Parent-Child Language Play Program Using Picture Books

- The impact of reading with father on children's language development

The magic of speaking! Practice your child's language skills with board games.

 

Language delays have a very high chance of improvement with early detection and appropriate intervention! That's why it's crucial to regularly monitor your child's development and consult with a professional when necessary. There are many different methods and channels available to help your child, so why not start intervention now?

Well, I'll be back with more helpful content. Thank you for reading!