Can a Child with a Speech Delay Catch Up Over Time?

A speech delay happens when a child is not producing sounds as expected for their age. Similarly, an expressive language delay is when a child is not using language as expected, although their understanding of language may be age-appropriate. It is common for parents to have concerns about late talking and delayed speech, and also to worry about when or if they should seek intervention. A majority of late talkers will catch up without intervention. An assessment by a qualified speech-language pathologist (SLP) can help determine if your child is likely to catch up on their own or needs intervention. Early intervention and speech therapy can support catch-up growth.

What Is a Speech Delay and Who Are Late Talkers?

A speech delay occurs when a child cannot correctly produce sounds that are expected at their age. This may make them hard to understand. A child with a speech delay may also be a “late talker,” meaning they are not communicating by using as much language (expressive language) as expected for their given age. However, their understanding of language (receptive language) may be judged to be adequate. If a child is meeting all other developmental milestones, a delay in speech or expressive language may not be a concern. An evaluation is the best way to determine if your child could benefit from intervention. You can also review developmental milestones here: “ASHA's Developmental Milestones: Birth to 5 Years.”

When Do Late Talkers Typically Start Talking?

Children develop at different rates, which is why developmental milestones are best discussed using an age range. Most toddlers begin to say words around 12 months. If a child is between 18-30 months and has not started using language, they may be considered a “late talker.” There are a variety of possible reasons for late talking. Some of these include family history, other areas of relative strength or interest, exposure to multiple languages, or underlying medical conditions. If your child is a late talker, an assessment can help determine if they are likely to catch up on their own or would benefit from speech therapy.

Can Children with Speech Delays Catch Up on Their Own?

Late talkers can catch up naturally, and this is more likely if their receptive language skills (i.e., what they understand) are appropriate for their age. However, not all children outgrow delays without support. There are risks of taking a “wait and see” approach, as your child may require the support of intervention, or at the very least, may make gains more quickly with therapy. If delays persist, making gains becomes more challenging, which can result in the potential for future academic and social impacts.

Signs It’s Time to Seek Help for a Speech Delay

There are red flags that a delay may not resolve without therapy. These include no babbling, limited vocabulary, unclear speech, or difficulty combining words. Children often become frustrated and demonstrate behavioral struggles when they cannot effectively communicate. For a comprehensive list of signs, read our article “Know the Signs of Speech and Language Disorders.” Early assessment and intervention by a qualified speech-language pathologist is critical to success.

How Speech Therapy Helps Late Talkers Catch Up

Speech therapy supports receptive and expressive language development. SLPs use techniques such as modeling, repetition, and play-based learning. A personalized plan of care meets a child’s unique needs and can accelerate progress. Professional guidance also helps a parent learn how to best support their child’s developmental journey. A Verse therapy SLP can partner with parents on that journey to success.

What Parents Can Do at Home to Support Progress

Parents can help by creating a language-rich environment. This is done through narrating activities, reading aloud, singing songs, and expanding phrases. It’s important to maximize daily communicative interaction with your child and limit screen time. Use daily routines and play for language-building opportunities. For example, you can do things such as:

• Make a game of labeling all the items in the bathroom during bath time
• Describe the food you are eating. How does it look, smell, and taste? Say it out loud and ask your child questions about it.
• When reading a bedtime story, focus on the pictures rather than the words, and describe what is happening. Encourage your child to talk about what they see.

Outcomes and Expectations with Early Intervention

The SLP will help set realistic timelines for improvement once therapy begins. Most children improve with early intervention. Parental involvement in treatment and carryover activities in the natural environment is important for success. Parents should be reassured that getting support sooner rather than later will set their child on the path to making gains.

Ready to Help Your Child Catch Up?

Speech delays can be overcome with support. Schedule an evaluation with Verse Therapy to begin a personalized treatment plan. Verse offers virtual sessions, which makes getting help convenient, and it provides the opportunity for you and your child to participate in the comfort of your own home. Set up an appointment and start your child's communication journey!