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<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nStill, it\u2019s best to bring up\nany concerns with the child\u2019s doctor. If there is a language disorder or\ndevelopmental problem, early treatment is key to preventing learning problems\ndown the road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A variety of factors can lead\nto delayed speech and language skills. These include heredity, hearing loss, oral\nanatomy (problems with the tongue or soft palate), dysarthria (a disorder\ninvolving the muscles that control speech), exposure to multiple languages, neurological\ndisorders (such as autism, cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy), learning\ndisabilities, auditory processing disorders, premature birth and environmental\ndeprivation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If the child\u2019s doctor cannot\nrule out a speech delay, a speech-language pathologist should be consulted for\na full evaluation. This involves a series of tests that will be used to assess the\nchild\u2019s receptive language and expressive language skills, sound development,\nspeech clarity and oral-motor skills. Speech therapy may be recommended to help\nthe child develop the skills necessary for effective communication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both heredity and environment play a role in speech development. There are steps parents can take to assist their child with speech development such as communicating often (talk and sing), encouraging verbal interaction whenever possible and reading to the child starting at a young age.<\/p>\n\n\n