What is a language delay?

A language delay is a type of communication disorder where a child’s language abilities may be developing slower than other children’s. It could mean that they have trouble expressing themselves or understanding what others are saying.

The normal age that children start saying their first words is between 12 and 18 months. However, in children with a language delay, words often appear later than 18 months. Usually, they find it more difficult to express themselves rather than understanding others, which means their ability to understand is more developed.

To diagnose this condition a study should be carried out, since other conditions such as a generalised developmental disorder, hearing difficulties or neurological disorders need to be ruled out.

Disease prognosis

A language delay may slow down a child’s ability to learn, therefore, if treatment isn’t started quickly, it can affect the child's performance in school. The best option is to consult a specialist and perform the relevant tests.

Symptoms of a language delay

Some children who suffer from this condition start talking later and may not be able to say a word until they are two years old.

Common symptoms include:

At eighteen months

• Not babbling or attempting sounds
• Not pointing to objects when asked for them
• Not showing any intention to communicate
• Not understanding words like “yes” or “no”

At 2 years old

• Only repeating words that are heard
• Not showing an interest in communicating
• Only making sounds and still not saying proper words

At 3 years old

• Confusing words frequently
• An inability to speak in short sentences
• Finding it hard to communicate

At 4 years old

• Poor pronunciation and articulation
• Difficulty following direction
• Leaving words out of sentences
• Finding it hard to build a sentence

Medical tests for language delay

The child's parents or teachers are usually the first to notice this condition, however, the diagnosis has to be made by speech professionals based on tests carried out by experts trained to evaluate and treat children with these types of problems.

A doctor can take a questionnaire and interact with the child in a different way to get more information. A series of tests are also performed, including a hearing test, to be able to refer you to a speech and language therapist in case there is a problem.

What are the causes of language delay?

The most common causes of a language delay include the following:

• Hearing impairment
• Autism
• Psychosocial issues
• Intellectual disability

Sometimes, hereditary factors or brain injuries caused during pregnancy, at birth or early age can be associated with a language delay.

In bilingual families, it is also possible for children to suffer from this condition. It may take a child slightly longer to start using either one or both of the languages.

Early diagnosis is important so that the most optimal treatment for the child can be used. In some cases, only the guidance of a specialist is enough.

Can it be prevented?

You might be able to prevent it, but it depends on what is causing the language delay. Seeing a speech therapist if you suspect your child has the condition might help prevent it from getting worse.

If the condition is being caused by a hearing impairment, then you should address the hearing problem and make sure your child has access to sound and speech. After this, the child may be able to catch up to their peers.

To prevent your child from falling behind, try to talk more to him or her, and describe everything you’re doing. If your child says something, confirm what they have said and always try to give some feedback.

Treatments for language delay

Treatments must always be carried out by an expert. Language delay is a condition that is treated through language rehabilitation methods.

Depending on the child, a personalised plan should be carried out. This involves identifying the strengths and weaknesses and set objectives based on them.

The personalised plan may include exercises to encourage language learning, such as:

• Games to identify written phonemes
• Onomatopoeia exercises
• Word completion games
• Work with semantics
• Word and sound association exercises

What kind of specialist treats this condition?

An expert who treats this can be a speech therapist or a specialist in language disorders.