15 Month Old Isn't Talking: What Parents Need To Know

Introduction

As a parent, it’s natural to worry when your child isn’t meeting developmental milestones. One of the most common concerns is a 15-month-old not talking. While it’s true that some toddlers are late bloomers when it comes to language development, there are certain red flags to watch for. In this article, we’ll explore what’s typical for a 15-month-old’s language skills, when to seek professional help, and what you can do to support your child’s communication development.

What’s Typical for a 15-Month-Old?

At 15 months, most children are saying a handful of words and using gestures to communicate. They may say “mama” or “dada,” as well as other simple words like “ball” or “dog.” They’re also starting to understand more of what you say to them and can follow simple commands like “come here” or “give me the toy.” However, every child develops at their own pace, and there’s a wide range of what’s considered normal.

Red Flags to Watch For

While some children may just be late talkers, there are certain red flags that could indicate a more serious issue. These include: – No babbling or attempts at speech – Lack of response to their name or other sounds – Limited or no use of gestures like pointing or waving – Difficulty with social interaction or eye contact If your child shows any of these signs, it’s important to talk to your pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re concerned about your child’s language development, it’s always a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. They can evaluate your child’s hearing and refer you to a speech-language pathologist if necessary. In general, you should seek professional help if your child: – Isn’t using any words by 18 months – Has a limited vocabulary or difficulty with word retrieval – Doesn’t follow simple commands or understand basic questions – Has difficulty with social interaction or eye contact

What You Can Do to Support Your Child’s Communication Development

While it’s important to seek professional help if your child is showing signs of a language delay, there are also things you can do at home to support their communication development. These include: – Talking to your child frequently and using simple, clear language – Reading to your child every day – Encouraging your child to use gestures like pointing or waving – Playing games that involve turn-taking and social interaction – Limiting screen time and providing plenty of opportunities for face-to-face interaction

Conclusion

If your 15-month-old isn’t talking yet, it’s natural to be concerned. However, it’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace. While some children may just be late talkers, others may need professional help to support their language development. If you’re worried about your child’s language skills, talk to your pediatrician or a speech-language pathologist. And remember, there are also things you can do at home to support your child’s communication development.