If your child is under age 3 and you suspect the presence of a speech or language disorder, he or she may qualify for Early Intervention services for infants and toddlers (age 0-3). These services are provided under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Your child may receive a multidisciplinary evaluation and identification of the needs of your family as designed in a Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). If your child is older than age 3, he or she may qualify for special education services under an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
In the meantime, you can engage in a variety of activities to encourage your child’s language development. Talk to your baby during daily routines such as bathing, feeding and dressing. Sing songs and nursery rhymes. Name common items and describe what they do or how they are used. Be sure to read to your child regularly and talk about pictures. If your child is old enough, ask them to point to pictures and ask them simple questions.
More on Supporting Language Development in Young Children:
10 Ways to Promote Language and Communication Skills of Infants and Toddlers
Helping Toddlers Expand Language Skills
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Ultimately, if you suspect your child has a speech or language disorder he or she should be evaluated by a licensed Speech Language Pathologist (SLP). The SLP will assess and determine an appropriate treatment plan for your child. The SLP may work collaboratively with other professionals to ensure the best outcomes for your child. Ultimately, Early Intervention will have a lifelong positive impact on your child and your family.
For more information about Speech and Language visit the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) website at http://www.asha.org/.
About the Author: Monica C. Hudnall, MA, CCC-SLP, specializes in autism spectrum disorders and culturally/linguistically diverse populations. She’s provided treatment in public schools and early intervention, serving 18-month to 21-year-olds with mild to severe communication impairments in the San Francisco Bay area.
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