Speech Delay vs Language Delay: What’s the Difference?
As a parent, it’s natural to worry if your child isn’t talking as much as their peers. You might have searched for terms like “speech delay in toddlers”, “late talking child”, or “when should my child start talking?” but found conflicting information. Understanding the difference between a speech delay and a language delay can help you decide if your child might benefit from speech therapy.
What is a Speech Delay?
A speech delay means a child has difficulty with the sounds used for speaking. This might include:
Difficulty pronouncing words clearly
Struggling to put sounds together
Talking later than expected, even though they understand language
For example, a child with a speech delay may know what they want to say but struggle to form the words correctly. This can be due to muscle coordination issues, childhood apraxia of speech, or phonological disorders.
What is a Language Delay?
A language delay happens when a child has trouble understanding or using words to communicate. This can affect:
Following instructions or answering questions
Building vocabulary and using age-appropriate words
Forming sentences and expressing thoughts clearly
A child with a language delay might say fewer words than expected for their age or struggle to combine words into sentences, even if their speech sounds clear.
Key Differences Between Speech Delay and Language Delay
Speech delay = trouble saying words correctly (speech production issue)
Language delay = trouble understanding and using words (communication issue)
Some children may experience both speech and language delays at the same time.
When Should Parents Seek Help?
If your child:
Isn’t meeting speech and language milestones for their age
Struggles to be understood by family or peers
Seems frustrated when trying to communicate
Uses gestures instead of words past age 2
It’s a good idea to seek support from a paediatric speech and language therapist. Early intervention can make a big difference in improving your child’s communication skills, confidence, and school readiness.
Speech Therapy for Toddlers and Children
At Sprout Learning, we provide early intervention speech therapy for toddlers and children. Our family-centred approach ensures parents are involved in every step of the process. If you’re concerned about your child’s speech or language development, contact us today for an assessment—we’re here to help your child thrive!