FACTS: Articulation, language, and communication difficulties can have a profound and lasting effect on children’s lives. Young children with Speech and Language Impairments (SLI) are at risk for continued communication problems, as well as associated cognitive, academic, behavioral, social, and psychiatric difficulties (Bahir & Scavuzzo, 1992). Frustration, peer rejection, low self-esteem, and lack of confidence are often experienced by children with speech and language delays. Early language disorders often lead to constant academic struggle, learning disabilities, poor peer relationships, behavioral problems, and poor self concept.  Often pediatricians have the “wait and see” attitude when parents express concern regarding delayed speech and language skills. If you are concerned about your child's speech and language development, err on the conservative side, and have him/her evaluated by a speech-language pathologist.

Warning Signs of Speech and Language Problems:
	1. Frequently, the child must repeat utterances in order for the listener to understand. 2. Family members have difficulty understanding the child’s speech. 3. Child demonstrates signs of frustration or avoidance when attempting to communicate. 4. The child gives up or withdraws from communicating situations. 5. When communicating needs, the child uses more gestures than words. 6. The child struggles academically. 7. Behavioral problems are present of begin to emerge. 8. Child demonstrates difficulty with peer interactions and relationships.

Articulation and Language Developmental Milestones by Age

1.0 to 1.5 years: The first word typically appears around 12-months.  10-20 words vocabulary. Frequently occurring first words are "mama, dada, cookie, car, bye-bye", and "no." Names simple objects and verbalizes requests, protests, comments, and greetings.  Follows simple directions. Points to 2+ objects. Identifies 1-2 body parts.

1.6 to 2 years old: Verbalizes 2-3 word phrases, such as, "more milk" and "dada bye-bye". Has a minimum of 200-word vocabulary by the age 2.0. Enjoys listening to stories.

2.0 to 2.5 Years: Uses 3-4 word phrases. 400-word vocabulary by age 2.5. Listens to a 5-10 minute stories. Follows two-step commands/directions. Uses plurals (dogs) when speaking and understands basic prepositions, such as in, on, off, and out.

2.6 to 3.0 Years: Asks basic questions. Verbalize appropriate pronouns such (I, me, mine). Answers “what” questions, and comprehends sizes (big, little). Verbalizes a minimum of 500 words.