What should I do if my child isn’t speaking by 18 months?

Q: What should I do if my child isn’t speaking by 18 months?

By 18 months, children are expected to be saying at least 20 words. If your child is between 12 and 18 months old and is not yet talking or has only a few words, we recommend taking action. Studies show early intervention is most effective in helping children develop language. A speech language pathologist (SLP) will help determine whether your child’s language skills are age-appropriate. They will examine areas of strength and needs, and help identify the root cause of your child’s difficulties. At Open Lines ® , we know that your child’s development is one-of-a-kind. That is why every program begins with an individualized assessment. We prioritize working with you to set goals for your child, give you answers to your questions about your child’s specific challenges, and work with you to see those goals achieved as quickly as possible.