5 Common Speech Development Myths in Young Children: What our Speech Pathologists Want Every Parent Should Know
As a parent, you naturally worry when your child doesn’t seem to be reaching their milestones at the same pace as other children. Speech development is one area that often raises concerns. Children grow at their own speed, and speech development can vary from child to child. However, there are several common myths surrounding speech and language development that can cause confusion for parents.
In this blog, we’ll debunk five of the most common speech development myths in young children. Understanding the facts can help you make informed decisions and support your child’s growth.
Myth 1: “Boys Talk Later Than Girls”
One of the most common myths parents hear is that boys talk later than girls. While it’s true that boys and girls may develop at different rates in some areas, there is no solid evidence to suggest that boys will naturally be delayed in speech. Both boys and girls typically follow the same basic speech and language milestones. Any significant delay, regardless of gender, should be addressed.
By the age of 12 months, most children say their first word. By 18 months, they should have around 10 to 20 words, and by 2 years, they should be combining two or more words to form short sentences. If your child isn’t meeting these milestones, it’s important to consult a speech pathologist. Don’t wait or assume your child will “grow out of it” simply because they’re a boy.
Myth 2: “It’s Okay if They Don’t Talk Much, They’ll Catch Up Later”
Many parents hear the advice to “wait and see” when their child isn’t speaking much by a certain age. The assumption is that they’ll eventually “catch up” on their own. While some late talkers do eventually develop typical speech and language skills, many don’t without the right support.
The earlier a speech delay is identified, the better the outcomes for the child. Early intervention has been shown to improve communication skills and prevent long-term difficulties. A child who isn’t talking by 2 years old or is using fewer than 50 words should be seen by a speech pathologist. The sooner the problem is addressed, the more progress your child can make.
Don’t wait for your child to catch up on their own. Seek professional advice if you have concerns about their speech and language development.
Myth 3: “Second or Third Children Always Talk Later”
Many parents believe that second-born or third-born children naturally talk later than their older siblings. The reasoning is often that older siblings tend to talk for them, so the younger child doesn’t need to speak as much. While it’s true that older siblings may dominate conversations, this doesn’t mean the younger child’s speech will be delayed.
Birth order alone does not determine when a child will begin to speak. Each child develops at their own pace. If your second or third child is behind in speech development, it’s important to look at other factors rather than assuming birth order is the cause. Things like hearing issues, speech and language disorders, or reduced opportunities to practise speech can all contribute to a delay.
If your younger child isn’t reaching their speech milestones, it’s a good idea to consult with a speech pathologist. Birth order may influence family dynamics, but it shouldn’t be an excuse for speech delays.
Myth 4: “Bilingualism Delays Speech Development”
There’s a persistent myth that raising a child to speak two or more languages will delay their speech development. Some parents worry that exposure to multiple languages may confuse their child, causing delays in their ability to talk.
In reality, children are very capable of learning multiple languages at a young age. Bilingualism does not delay speech development. In fact, being exposed to more than one language from a young age can offer many cognitive benefits. Bilingual children may initially mix words from both languages or take a little longer to master each language, but this is a normal part of their development. It does not mean they are delayed.
If your child is raised in a bilingual environment and seems to be struggling with speech, it’s important to assess whether they are delayed in both languages. A speech pathologist experienced in bilingualism can help identify whether your child’s speech issues are related to a genuine delay or are part of normal bilingual development.
Myth 5: “Children With Speech Delays Are Less Intelligent”
One of the most damaging myths about speech development is the belief that children with speech delays are less intelligent. This is simply not true. Speech and intelligence are two separate areas of development. Many bright and intelligent children experience speech delays. It doesn’t reflect on their cognitive abilities or potential.
Children with speech delays may have difficulties with pronunciation, sentence formation, or vocabulary, but these challenges don’t necessarily impact their ability to think, problem-solve, or learn. In fact, some children with speech delays may excel in other areas, such as problem-solving or motor skills.
By working with a speech pathologist, children with speech delays can make significant progress and often catch up with their peers. It’s important for parents to understand that a speech delay does not define a child’s overall intelligence or potential for success.
Signs of a Speech Delay
Now that we’ve covered some of the common myths about speech development, it’s important to know what to look for in case your child may be experiencing a delay. Here are some key signs to watch for:
- By 12 months: Your child isn’t babbling or using sounds to communicate.
- By 18 months: Your child says fewer than 10 to 20 words.
- By 24 months: Your child isn’t combining two or more words into phrases or sentences.
- By 3 years: Your child’s speech is difficult to understand by people outside the family.
- Any age: Your child doesn’t respond to their name, struggles to follow simple instructions, or shows no interest in communicating.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s worth seeking advice from a speech pathologist. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s communication skills.
When to Seek Help
If you’re worried about your child’s speech development, don’t wait. A speech pathologist can assess your child’s speech and language abilities and recommend strategies or interventions if necessary. Early intervention is key. It helps children build the skills they need to communicate effectively and reduces the risk of long-term difficulties. A speech pathologist will debunk the 5 common myths about speech development.
At OneOnOne Children’s Therapy in Bondi Junction and Mascot, we specialise in helping children develop their speech and language skills. Our experienced speech pathologists offer personalised therapy plans that address your child’s unique needs. Our Speech Pathologists are members of Speech Pathology Australia.
Conclusion
Understanding the facts about speech development is crucial for every parent. Don’t be misled by common myths like “boys talk later,” or “they’ll catch up on their own.” If you’re concerned about your child’s speech, it’s always better to seek professional advice. With the right support, your child can develop the communication skills they need to thrive.
For families in Sydney, our clinics in Bondi Junction and Mascot are here to help. If you’re concerned about your child’s speech development or want to learn more about the services we offer, contact OneOnOne Children’s Therapy today. Together, we can help your child reach their full potential in communication and beyond.
