Parent Resources

Helpful information about speech therapy, common concerns, and what to expect when seeking help for your child.

When Should My Child See a Speech Therapist?

Many parents wonder whether their child's speech development is on track. Here are common signs that your child may benefit from a speech-language evaluation.

By 12 months: Not babbling or using gestures (pointing, waving)
By 18 months: Fewer than 10 words
By 24 months: Fewer than 50 words or no two-word phrases
By 3 years: Difficult for unfamiliar listeners to understand
At any age: Loss of previously acquired speech or language skills

Common Speech & Language Concerns

Speech therapy covers a wide range of communication challenges. Understanding the different types can help you describe your child's needs.

Articulation: Difficulty producing specific sounds correctly
Fluency / Stuttering: Interruptions in the flow of speech
Language Delay: Slower development of vocabulary and sentences
Apraxia: Difficulty planning and coordinating mouth movements for speech
Social Communication: Challenges with conversational and social language skills

What to Expect from Speech Therapy

If your child is starting speech therapy, here's a general overview of what the process typically looks like.

Initial Evaluation: A comprehensive assessment of your child's speech and language abilities (45-60 minutes)
Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation, the SLP creates goals tailored to your child
Regular Sessions: Typically 1-2 times per week, 30-45 minutes each
Home Practice: Your therapist will give you activities to practice between sessions
Progress Reviews: Regular check-ins to adjust goals and track improvement

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified speech-language pathologist or healthcare provider about your child's specific needs. GlowSpeech is not a healthcare provider.

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