Early Identification of Speech, Language, Swallowing, and Hearing Disorders

Identifying Signs of Speech Pathology Disorders

Children develop at their own pace. While some may begin walking and talking early, others might take longer. However, delays in acquiring skills within expected age ranges, like between 12 and 18 months, could indicate potential issues related to speech, language, swallowing, or hearing.

It's crucial to understand what typical development entails. Below, we outline signs of speech, language, and hearing disorders, along with their corresponding expected age ranges:

Age Range & Red Flags

• 7–12 months:

  • Limited sound production; lack of gestures

• 12–18 months:

  • Minimal vocabulary; difficulty understanding others

• 1½–2 years:

  • Limited word combinations

• 2 years:

  • Vocabulary less than 50 words

• 2–3 years:

  • Difficulty interacting with peers; early literacy issues

For a comprehensive understanding of developmental stages from birth to five years, and to recognise signs of potential speech pathology disorders, continue reading.

Feeding and Swallowing Disorders in Children

Feeding and swallowing difficulties can impact a child's overall well-being, education, and social interactions. Feeding disorders encompass issues with sucking, spoon-feeding, chewing, or drinking from a cup, while swallowing disorders, known as dysphagia, involve challenges in moving food or liquid through the throat to the stomach.

Recognising signs of feeding and swallowing disorders is essential. Some indicators include:

• Arching the back or stiffening during feeding

• Crying or fussiness during feeding

• Refusal to eat or drink

• Choking or gagging while eating

• Excessive drooling or coughing during meals

It's important to note that not all signs may be present, but they could signify risks such as dehydration, aspiration, respiratory infections, or negative associations with eating.

Language Disorders

Language encompasses various skills like listening, speaking, understanding, reading, and writing. A child with a language disorder may struggle with one or more of these components. Signs of language issues include:

• Lack of babbling or gesturing

• Limited vocabulary or word combinations

• Difficulty understanding others or interacting with peers

• Early literacy challenges

Parents can support language development through activities like talking, reading, and playing, as well as exposing their child to diverse vocabulary and interactions with peers.

Speech Sound Disorders

Speech involves articulating sounds and words accurately. While it's normal for young children to mispronounce certain sounds, persistent difficulties may indicate a speech sound disorder. Signs include:

• Inability to produce specific sounds correctly

• Speech patterns difficult to understand

Parents can assist by providing clear speech models and avoiding correction of speech sounds, allowing natural development.

Stuttering

Stuttering, characterised by speech disruptions like repetitions or prolongations of sounds, may occur temporarily in young children. However, signs suggesting persistent stuttering include:

• Difficulty articulating sounds or words

• Repetition of sounds or syllables

• Pauses or prolonged sounds during speech

Parents can support children by allowing them time to speak without interruption and observing their reactions to stuttering.

Voice Disorders

Voice disorders affect sound production and quality. Signs include hoarseness, nasal speech, or breathiness. Parents can help by monitoring changes in their child's voice and encouraging habits like avoiding shouting or exposure to cigarette smoke.

Hearing Loss

Hearing loss, whether congenital or acquired, can impact a child's language and communication skills. Signs include lack of response to sounds or speech delays. Parents should prioritise newborn hearing screenings and seek medical attention for concerns about hearing loss.

By being vigilant and recognising early signs of speech, language, swallowing, and hearing disorders, parents can facilitate timely intervention and support for their child's development.

If you have any questions or would like to know more about our team or our services, please don't hesitate to reach out to us! We value your feedback and are always here to help. You can contact us through email, phone, or ‘Contact Us’ page of our website. We look forward to hearing from you!

- Teddy Talk Speech Pathology Team