Communication is an amazing and complicated ability that literally
explodes in the early childhood years. For some, this explosion happens
early while others are "late talkers." This range makes it tricky to
predict the right time to seek out an evaluation. Here are some key
prerequisites that you should look for when trying to decide if your 16, 18,
20, etc..., month old should be assessed.
Hearing: Has your child had a number of ear infections or been diagnosed
as having excessive wax in his/her ears? Even if your child has only been
treated for a couple infections, that combined with a language delay is enough
to warrant further assessment.
Comprehension: This one can be more difficult to rate than you think.
Many young children are great at following everyday directions within a
routine, so to really get some good information try calling your child by a
different name or use a silly direction like put your shoes on the chair.
In this way, you are looking to see if your child fully comprehends the words
you are saying or just responding to the sound of your voice. Remember
not to point or even look at the items you use in directions as youngsters
readily pick up on these subtle clues.
Gestures: Before children start talking, they use simple gestures like
pointing or looking at desired objects. They may also reach towards or
move away from objects to make their needs known. Keep an eye on them
because while they are picking up small Cheerios on the table, they are also
developing a refined movement with their fingers that will assist them in other
activities like pointing.
Babbling and jargoning: These noise making activities speak volumes about
language ability. Infants begin by babbling one syllable at a time like
ba, ba, ba or da, da. After some time, they learn to string these
syllables together, which begin to sound conversational. Soon, they vary
their tones from low to high and add some of those gestures mentioned
above. Once in a while, you may hear a real word in the mix, usually
around 10-12 months old.
If your child appears to show a delay in one or more of the above areas, then you
should seek out an evaluation sooner rather than later. Therapistscan help
you answer those questions or concerns you may have on your mind.
