Recognising and Handling Speech Delay: A Guide for Parents
Speech delay can be a concern for parents, but recognising the signs and taking appropriate steps can greatly support a child’s communication development. In the context of Singapore, understanding speech delay and its management is essential. This article addresses common questions in a question and answer format.
What is speech delay, and how is it recognised?
Speech delay refers to a child’s slower development of speech and language skills compared to their peers. Signs of speech delay may include:
- Limited vocabulary for their age.
- Difficulty pronouncing words.
- Struggling to construct sentences.
- Inability to communicate needs and thoughts effectively.
How does speech delay affect a child’s development?
Children with speech delay may face difficulties in articulation, the production of speech sounds
fluency, the rhythm and flow of speech. This may affect their language abilities, and children with speech delay may have trouble understanding, or being understood through all forms of communication (verbal, written and nonverbal).
Can speech delay cause learning difficulties?
Problems with basic language skills will affect classroom performance in future, especially when your child faces difficulties in academic tasks such as reading and writing.
Should speech delay persist, children may have trouble reading, writing or speaking aloud when they attend school. As such, it is important to treat speech delay as soon as possible with the appropriate therapy.
How to assess a child with speech delay?
You may assess whether or not your child has speech delay by using the following age milestones as a guide:
Age 2: uses less than 50 words
Age 2 1/2: doesn’t use unique two-word phrases or noun-verb combinations
Age 3: uses less than 200 words, doesn’t ask for things by name, hard to understand even if you live with them
Any age: unable to say previously learned words
Does my child need a speech therapist?
Parents should consider seeking professional guidance if their child:
- Doesn’t babble by 12 months old
- Doesn’t use single words by 18 months old
- Isn’t forming two-word combinations by 2 years
- Experiences persistent difficulty being understood by others
What are the risks of late recognition of speech and language delays?
If speech delay is causing problems for your child, such as the inability to understand communication and difficulties in forming relationships with peers, delayed intervention may affect a child’s progress in his/her education, as well as self-esteem and confidence.
If left untreated, untreated speech and language delay can persist in 40%–60% of the children and these children may face a higher risk of social, emotional, behavioural, and cognitive problems in adulthood.
At home exercises that helps with speech delay
As you consider speech therapy for your child, parents can also play a significant role in supporting your child’s speech development.
1. Encourage Communication
Engage in conversations and encourage the child to express themselves. This can be done by actively asking your child questions, and conversing with your child more regularly.
2. Read Together
Reading books promotes language exposure and vocabulary building. You may use picture books to teach your child new vocabulary, or toys to facilitate engagement.
3. Articulate Clearly
When speaking to your child, model clear and correct pronunciation for the child to imitate.
4. Use Visual Aids
Incorporate pictures or gestures to enhance understanding.
What should parents do if they suspect speech delay in their child?
If parents suspect speech delay, they should:
1. Consult Professionals
Seek an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist or paediatrician. You may explore Kaleidoscope’s range of professional speech therapists by visiting our website, or book an appointment with us to find out more by filling out this form.
2. Consider Early Intervention
If necessary, start speech therapy or interventions early for better outcomes. Kaleidoscope’s Early Intervention Program (EIP) is a play based program that focuses on building the foundational skills a child needs to participate and succeed in a preschool setting.
We have a large team of speech and language, occupational therapists and physiotherapists who provide daily therapy for the children in small group settings and in pairs. They are highly experienced and trained in special areas such as sensory integration and Floortime, and are collaborative and neurodiversity-affirming in their approach. Find out more by visiting our website, or book a personal consultation with us via this form.
How is speech delay managed in Singapore?
In Singapore, speech delay is managed through:
- Speech Therapy: Trained speech therapists offer tailored interventions and strategies.
- Early Intervention Programs: Government-supported programs focus on early speech and language development.
- Parental Involvement: Parents collaborate with therapists to reinforce skills at home.
Are there government resources available for speech delay in Singapore?
Yes, Singapore provides government-supported resources for speech delay:
- Early Intervention Programs: Integrated support for young children with speech and language challenges.
- Child Development Account: A savings scheme for healthcare and education needs, including speech therapy.
- SPED Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS): Provides Singapore Citizens in lower-income families enrolled in MOE-funded SPED schools with financial assistance.
- Special Needs Savings Scheme: Enables parents to set aside CPF savings for the long-term care of children with special needs.
You may find out more about the range of government support initiatives available via the Support Go Where website, or via MOE’s Special Needs Educational Support for Primary Schools.
Can speech delay be related to other developmental concerns?
Yes, speech delay can be related to other developmental concerns like hearing impairment, autism spectrum disorder, or intellectual disabilities. A thorough assessment helps identify any underlying issues.
What role do speech therapists play in addressing speech delay?
Speech therapists:
- Conduct assessments to identify speech and language challenges.
- Develop personalised intervention plans.
- Use techniques like play-based activities and exercises to improve speech and communication skills.
In conclusion, recognizing and handling speech delay is crucial for a child’s communication development. In Singapore, parents have access to early intervention programs, speech therapists, and government resources to support their child’s journey to effective communication. Early intervention and collaboration between parents and professionals play a pivotal role in addressing speech delay successfully.
