Baby Not Talking? Key Signs of Language Delay

Does your baby speak little? Red Flags in Language

During the first few years of life, the development of children's language varies from child to child. Some start talking very early, while others take a little longer. But how do you know if that "it takes a while" is within what is expected or if it is a warning sign that deserves follow-up? In this article, we explain when to worry, what milestones are important, and how to accompany your child's journey with love and attention.

Observe and accompany: the first step to understand how your baby's language evolves.

What is considered "normal" language development?

Although each child has his or her own rhythm, there are certain developmental milestones that mark typical language development. These guide families and professionals on what is expected at each age:

• By 12 months, many babies are already saying a word with intention (such as mama, dada) and understand simple instructions.
• By 18 months, they usually say between 10 and 50 words.
• By age 2, they should combine two words to form simple phrases like "mama water" or "more bread."
• By age 3, most can hold small talk, and their language is understandable to people who don't know them.

These data are based on communicative development criteria of entities such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)

Warning signs: when to consult?

Although development is variable, there are signs that may indicate the need for a professional evaluation:

"A delay in the onset of language can be an early indicator of neurodevelopmental difficulties, such as language disorders, autism spectrum disorders, or hearing loss."

Here are some warning signs by age:

• Before 12 months: does not babble, does not respond to sounds or to their name.
• At 18 months: does not say meaningful words, seems not to understand simple commands.
• By age 2: Doesn't put two words together, uses very few, or doesn't seem to try to communicate.
• At 3 years old: he speaks very little, his speech is not understood, or he does not show interest in talking.
• At any time: you have lost language skills you already had.

It is also essential to observe the use of non-verbal language (looks, gestures, pointing). A child who doesn't point to show or ask for something at 12-15 months might need evaluation.

What can be behind a late language?

There are multiple reasons why a child can speak little. Some of the most common include:

• Simple language delay: Children who start talking later, but then develop normally.
• Developmental Language Disorder (DLD): Specific difficulty acquiring and using language, with no apparent cause.
• Hearing loss: Even mild loss can affect language acquisition.
• Autism spectrum disorders (ASD): they usually have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication.
• Unstimulating environments: In some cases, a lack of interaction or exposure to speech can play a role.

Early detection and appropriate intervention are key to improving the prognosis in any case.

What can you do as a parent?

Your role is essential. Here are some recommendations to stimulate your baby's language from home:

• Talk to him a lot, even if he doesn't respond with words yet.
• Put words to what he is experiencing: "you are eating bananas", "that car is red".
• Read stories together from the first months, pointing to the images and naming them.
• Play face-to-face, to promote eye contact, joint attention and imitation.
• Avoid excessive screens, especially in children under 2 years of age, as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO)

Reading aloud stimulates language, attention and emotional bonding.

When to see a professional?

If you have doubts about your child's language, it is ideal to consult your pediatrician, who can refer you to a speech therapist or child development specialist. The sooner it is evaluated, the better the intervention will be if necessary. Don't wait for "he'll talk," if there are warning signs.