Language delay and late talkers
Children develop language at different rates, but some need extra support to understand words and put them together. If your toddler is a late talker, or your older child struggles to follow instructions or tell a story, a speech pathologist can help.
What it is
Language has two sides: understanding language (what your child takes in) and using language (what they express). A delay can affect either or both. Late talkers are usually younger children who are slower to start using words, while developmental language disorder describes ongoing difficulties that are not explained by another condition.
How speech pathology helps
A speech pathologist works out your child's strengths and gaps across understanding and using language, then builds them up through play, books, and everyday routines. Parents are coached on simple strategies to use at home, which is often where the biggest gains come from.
Signs families notice
Some signs families notice:
- Few words by around 18 months to two years, or slow vocabulary growth
- Difficulty following instructions for their age
- Trouble joining words into phrases and sentences
- Hard to follow when telling you about their day
- Relying on gestures or pointing rather than words
NDIS and funding
Speech pathology for language difficulties is one of the most common supports families use NDIS therapy funding for, under Capacity Building, Improved Daily Living. Medicare care plans and private health extras can also contribute for shorter-term needs.
Common questions
My toddler is a late talker. Should I wait and see?
Some late talkers catch up on their own, but it is hard to predict which children will. Seeking advice early is reasonable, and an assessment can guide whether to monitor or start support.
What is the difference between speech and language?
Speech is how sounds are produced. Language is understanding and using words and sentences. A child can have difficulty with one, the other, or both.
Trust your instincts. If something feels behind, an assessment can clarify it. Search your suburb on Waitless to find local clinics and enquire for free.
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This page is general information, not clinical advice, and every child is different. For advice about your child, speak with a GP or a speech pathologist.