Parents often hear two extremes: ‘just wait’ or ‘start therapy immediately.’ Children develop at different rates, but checking a concern is different from assuming a diagnosis. A speech-language or hearing evaluation can clarify what support, if any, is needed.
Look beyond the number of words
- Does your child understand simple language?
- Do they point, show, gesture, or use facial expressions?
- Do they enjoy back-and-forth play?
- Do they respond consistently to sounds and their name?
- Is frustration increasing because communication is difficult?
Include a hearing check
A child may react to everyday sounds and still have difficulty hearing parts of speech clearly. Ask a health care provider whether a hearing evaluation is appropriate, especially with recurring ear infections or inconsistent responses.
What to bring to an evaluation
List words, gestures, directions your child understands, and situations where communication works best. If your family uses more than one language, describe understanding and expression across all languages; bilingual exposure does not remove the need for a complete, culturally responsive assessment.
- New communication skills
- Favorite songs, books, and play
- Communication in childcare or school
- How family members recognize requests
Build connection during routines
Follow your child’s focus, use short language, and pause for any response—words, sounds, gestures, or looks. Expand what your child communicates instead of repeatedly asking them to perform. Shared play and responsive conversation matter more than drilling isolated words.
Frequently asked question
Does growing up bilingual cause a language disorder?
Bilingual exposure does not itself cause a language disorder. If concerns exist, assessment should consider communication across all languages the child uses.