The number of cases of children speaking late appears to be on the rise. This increase parallels the increasing incidence of chronic ear infections, which can affect hearing and, in turn, contribute to speech delays. As more children spend time in child care settings, pediatricians say, they are exposed to the illnesses of the playmates that could lead to further ear problems.
Chronic ear infections can negatively affect early learning experiences, especially if other risk factors are present. The preschool years are a critical time for speech and language development.
Although many children appear to be genetically predisposed to develop speech later than others, environmental factors may also play a role in children who speak late. For example, it is being investigated whether exposure to substances such as mercury could cause neurological damage, which in turn could affect speech and language.
What to expect
Although children develop language skills at different rates, it is important that their progress is steady and that they reach certain milestones within accepted time frames. Here are some pointers of what is normal and what should raise concerns:
- Most babies begin cooing and babbling in the first year of life. They should be babbling all the consonant sounds, but if they are limited in this regard, it can be a red flag.
- Babies should begin to imitate the sounds their parents say. When mommy or daddy says "mommy" or "daddy" and the baby doesn't follow suit, that's a warning sign.
- Don't be overly concerned if a young child doesn't clearly say the "l", "r" and "s" sounds. The ability to form these particular sounds tends to develop over time, although it may not be until the age of 7 in some children.
In general, speech and language therapy is not necessary, although there may be an exception if these sounds are in the child's name. These children can become self-conscious, they may be reluctant to say their name and may withdraw socially.