Illinois Early Learning Project


http://illinoisearlylearning.org

Live Interactive Chat

February 11, 2004Speech Delays in Young Children: When Will They Talk?Marlene Christ
SLP, Project Director, Star Net Region VI; and Educational Consultant, Infinitec Assistive Technology School Coalitions

Parents and caregivers wait anxiously for their children to speak. However, long before that first word is spoken, communication is taking place. Facial expressions, gestures, sounds, and physical movement are powerful tools to convey meaning. Adults need to respond to these communication attempts just as they do to words to facilitate and strengthen the development of speech and language skills. In this Chat, find answers to questions such as, “How can I tell whether a 3-year-old who is not speaking much needs special help or is simply a late talker?” “What are some of the things that I can do to help children develop language” “Is there any connection between talking late and the development of intelligence? Do late talkers have any problems with later school success?”

NOTE: There may be publications on this page that are available as PDF (portable document format) files. To be able to read these files, download the free Adobe Reader.Illinois State Board of Education
-----

Disclaimer

The opinions, resources, and referrals provided on the IEL Web site are intended for informational purposes only and are not intended to take the place of medical or legal advice, or of other appropriate services. We encourage you to seek direct local assistance from a qualified professional if necessary before taking action.

The content of the IEL Web site does not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Illinois Early Learning Project, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, or the Illinois State Board of Education; nor does the mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the Illinois Early Learning Project, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, or the Illinois State Board of Education.