As a parent, it’s natural to wonder whether your child’s speech and language development is on track. Children progress at different rates, but there are certain signs that may indicate the need for support from a qualified speech pathologist.
Early identification of speech and language challenges can lead to quicker progress and long-term benefits. Below, we outline some common signs that may signal your child could benefit from a speech therapy assessment.
1. Limited Vocabulary Growth
By around 18 months, most children are using at least 20 distinct words, and by 24 months, their vocabulary typically expands to 50–100 words with simple word combinations such as “more juice” or “daddy go.”
If your child seems to have fewer words than expected for their age or is not yet combining words by two years old, this could be a sign of a language delay. Early assessment can help determine whether your child would benefit from therapy or simply needs more exposure and support at home.
“Children with smaller vocabularies at age two are more likely to require intervention later if language delays persist without support.”
(Rescorla et al., 2023. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research)
2. Consistent Speech Sound Errors
It’s completely normal for young children to mispronounce words as they learn to speak. However, by the age of three, most children should be understood by familiar listeners most of the time. By age four to five, their speech should be mostly intelligible to unfamiliar adults, with only a few lingering sound errors.
If your child frequently substitutes, omits, or distorts sounds in a way that makes their speech difficult to understand, it may be worth seeking an assessment. Persistent speech sound disorders can impact both social development and literacy.
“Delayed or atypical sound patterns beyond age-appropriate timelines may indicate underlying speech sound disorders.”
(Dodd & Crosbie, 2021. International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology)
3. Frequent Frustration When Communicating
One of the more subtle—but important—indicators of speech difficulties is how your child behaves when trying to communicate. If they become frustrated, withdrawn, or avoid speaking in social situations, they may be experiencing difficulty expressing themselves or feeling understood.
These emotional signs often go hand-in-hand with communication challenges. A speech pathologist can help identify the root cause and provide strategies to support your child’s confidence.
4. Family History of Communication Difficulties
Speech and language issues often have a genetic component. If you or other family members experienced speech delays, language disorders, dyslexia, or learning difficulties, your child may be at a higher risk of similar challenges.
In these cases, early monitoring and assessment can be especially beneficial—even before visible difficulties emerge.
“Genetic and familial factors play a significant role in the development of speech and language disorders.”
(Morgan et al., 2018. Pediatrics)
5. Concerns About Voice Quality
If your child consistently sounds hoarse, breathy, or overly nasal—and these traits persist for more than two to three weeks—this may indicate an issue with vocal quality. Unlike mispronunciations, these voice concerns are not typical parts of development and should be assessed by a speech pathologist.
Possible causes include vocal strain, anatomical differences, or medical conditions affecting the vocal cords.
“Persistent voice abnormalities in children require further investigation to prevent long-term vocal damage.”
(Dobrzynska et al., 2022. Journal of Voice)
6. Trust Your Instincts
Perhaps the most important point: you know your child best. If something doesn’t feel quite right, it’s always worth reaching out for an expert opinion. Speech pathologists work with children at all stages of development, and an early assessment can offer reassurance, insight, and practical steps forward.
“Parents are often the first to identify communication challenges, making their insights critical to early intervention efforts.”
(McLeod & Harrison, 2019. Australian Journal of Early Childhood)
When in Doubt, Reach Out
It’s never too early—or too late—to seek support. At JK Speech and Health, our experienced team of speech pathologists offer comprehensive assessments and personalised therapy programs to help every child find their voice.
If you’re concerned about your child’s communication, contact us today to book an assessment. Early support makes all the difference.
