1. Children are individuals and all follow their own time frame
for development.
Acquisition of speech and language skills are not immune to this
variance; even amongst typically developing children there is some
flexibility in the time it takes them to master the complex skill of
communication. While every child’s development is unique, it
should follow a linear pattern in a relatively timely fashion.
Deviations from this linear pattern, or significant delay in skill
development may require further assessment or intervention from
skilled communication specialist.
Your child’s pediatrician is a great starting place. Communicate
any concerns with the pediatrician; they are knowledgeable and
able to refer you to individuals who specialize in speech, language
and hearing.
Specialists include:
Speech-Language Pathologist- evaluates and treats
communication disorders
Audiologist- evaluates and provides interventions for hearing
impairments
Child Language
Development
Monitoring milestones
And early interventions
for families at home
Things to Consider
Parent
Resources
The American Speech
Language Hearing Association
ASHA.org
Search: typical speech and
language Development
Information on milestones related
to speech, hearing and language
development, in addition to early
detection of disorders and
assistance finding communication
specialists near you.
Search: Activities to Encourage
Speech Language Development
Chronicles activities that reinforce
and encourage language at
developmentally appropriate
intervals
If You Have Questions, Who Can
Help?

2. Parents have
Power.
1
Model Appropriate Play: play skills are the foundation for communication skills. Modeling
turn taking (e.g. passing a ball), appropriate use of toys (e.g. using cooking toys to cook), and
imaginative play all help develop language and social skills.
Model Cause and Effect: demonstrating cause and effect in play and daily activities can help
illustrate how communication impacts the environment. Don’t assume your child’s needs,
patiently encourage them to request and communicate their wants/needs. A great cause and
effect activity can be as simple as blowing bubbles!
Model Speech and Language: children are likely to imitate your example. Narrate daily
activities in simple phrases, sing simple songs and encourage your child to participate! Also
model speech sounds, starting with simple letter sounds in isolation. When your child has
mastered some sounds in isolation, build upon their skill and encourage consonant-vowel
clusters (e.g. ma ma), and eventually words!
How to Facilitate Language at Home
2
Active Reading
While looking at picture books try to avoid passively reading the words. Instead try labeling
colors, count items, compare and contrast, name letters anything you can think of! Encourage
your child to participate along with you!
For more ideas visit asha.org
Try this language building activity at home!