What contributes to Speech-Language Delays in Children

Causes of Speech-Language Delays?

We do not know what causes speech and language delays in most cases. But research has shown that there is likely to be a Genetic or Biological component.

Speech-Language Delays are more likely for:

*Boys

*Children who have a close family member with a history of a language delay or communication disorder.

*Children who have a developmental disorder or syndrome in which a language delay is a typical feature – for example, Down syndrome.

*Children with ongoing hearing problems and ear infections.

What to look for and ask yourself if your child does have chronic ear infections and/or a hearing loss:

Does your child have difficulty understanding certain words?

Does he misunderstand what is being said to him?

Does your child speak louder than normal?

Did your child once say words correctly and then start mispronouncing them?

Does your child often say "Huh" when you speak to him?
When was the last time your child had a hearing screening?

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Even though there are many other reason for hearing loss in children; speech-language pathologists know that a history of chronic ear infections could cause speech-language deficits.

This is hugely important to correct!

Classrooms are noisy environments and hearing loss can cause extreme anxiety for students academically.

If you are concerned: Please Contact your school Nurse!! She will guide you in the right direction.... Let's be Proactive for our children's future!