Is Your Child Not Talking Yet? What to Look for in Speech Delay

Every child is unique. Some start speaking early, while others take their time. But what happens when that “time” seems too long? As a parent, it’s normal to feel concerned if your child isn’t talking like their peers. The key is to know what’s typical—and when to seek help.

Here’s a guide to help you understand what to look for if your child may have a speech delay.

1. Listen to the Little Things

Speech isn’t just about saying full sentences. It begins with little sounds and reactions. Before worrying about words, ask yourself:

                •             Does my child make sounds or coo as a baby?

                •             Are they pointing, gesturing, or trying to communicate in other ways?

                •             Do they respond to sounds or voices around them?

If your child isn’t showing any signs of trying to interact by the time they’re a year old, it may be time to look closer.

2. Pay Attention to Frustration

Sometimes, the clearest sign of a speech delay is frustration. Children who understand more than they can say often get upset when they can’t express what they want. You might notice:

                •             Frequent tantrums when trying to communicate

                •             Pulling your hand instead of speaking

                •             Giving up quickly when trying to talk

This emotional response can be a big clue that your child is struggling to express themselves. At Speech World Inc., our speech therapists often help families work through these challenges by giving children new tools to express their needs.

3. Compare Understanding vs. Speaking

A child with a speech delay may understand far more than they can say. If your child follows instructions like “bring me your shoes” or “put it on the table” but doesn’t talk much, they might have a speech delay rather than a broader developmental delay.

This difference is important—and worth mentioning to a doctor or therapist. Our team at Speech World Inc. offers early evaluations to help families understand exactly where their child stands.

4. Watch Their Social Skills

Children learn to talk by being around people. Look for signs of interaction:

                •             Does your child make eye contact?

                •             Do they smile at others or try to play with peers?

                •             Are they interested in sounds, songs, or stories?

Speech and social development often go hand-in-hand. If your child shows little interest in others or rarely tries to communicate, that may be a concern.

5. Don’t Wait for “He’ll Catch Up”

Many well-meaning relatives will say, “Don’t worry—he’s just a late talker.” And sometimes that’s true. But if your gut tells you something isn’t right, trust your instinct. The earlier a child with speech delay gets help, the better their progress will be.

You can speak with a pediatrician or get a referral to a speech-language therapist. Speech World Inc. offers personalized, play-based therapy that helps children feel confident while learning to communicate.

Final Thought

Speech delays aren’t always a sign of something serious. But noticing the early signs and getting help can make a world of difference. Whether your child needs therapy or just extra practice at home, you’re their biggest supporter. Be patient, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask for guidance.

If you’re unsure where to start, Speech World Inc. is here to help. Our friendly team is just a call away.