How to Encourage Language Development in Toddlers
Posted by Mia Moe on Wed, Feb 24, 2010 @ 02:34 PM
Dr. Judy K. Montgomery, CCC-SLP, is a Professor of Special Education and Literacy at Chapman University. She served as the President of ASHA in 1995, and the president of the CEC Division of Communication Disorders and Deafness in 2004 - 2005.
LENA
Q:
My 15 month old daughter doesn't speak as much as my friends' children. How can I encourage her to speak more? And what should I look for in her that prompts me to visit a speech specialist?
A:
There are things parents can do to increase speech and language skills of young children. For example, speaking to your child face to face, calmly, in a fairly quiet environment, and using lots of gestures with your speech. Also, use "self-talk" which is talking about what you're doing. It's also very important to read to your child often. For more talking tips visit: LENA Baby resources.
When dealing with language delay, early intervention is key. Here are some warning signs to look for that may suggest your child has a speech delay:
* Poor eye contact from child most of the time
* Child doesn't watch your face when you talk
* Child gets anxious when others talk
* Child doesn't use sounds or words to get his needs met
When to see a Speech Language Pathologist:
* If child is talking but cannot be understood by unfamiliar adults
* If child has few or no words after 18 months of age
* If child appears to understand, but does not speak, only points
* If child suddenly stops talking after normal speech development
* If child is quickly frustrated or angry when not understood
* If child appears not to be interested in talking.