Signs Your Child Might Need Speech Therapy | Julie Stockdale SLP Calgary
By Julie Stockdale, M.Sc., CCC-SLP, R. SLP
As a parent, you know your child better than anyone. So when something feels off about the way they're communicating — whether they're not talking yet, hard to understand, or struggling to follow instructions — it's worth paying attention.
Speech-language pathology isn't just for children who "can't talk." It covers a wide range of communication skills, and early support almost always leads to better outcomes. Here's a straightforward guide to the signs that suggest a speech-language assessment might be worth pursuing.
What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Actually Do?
Before we get into the signs, it helps to understand the scope. Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work with children on:
Speech sounds — how clearly a child pronounces words
Language — understanding what others say and expressing their own thoughts
Social communication — using language appropriately in conversation
Fluency — stuttering and other disruptions to speech flow
Voice — hoarseness, pitch, or resonance concerns
Feeding and swallowing — oral motor difficulties affecting eating
AAC — alternative communication tools for children with limited speech
A concern in any of these areas is a valid reason to seek an assessment.
Signs by Age
12 months:
Not babbling or making consonant sounds (ba, da, ma)
Not responding to their name consistently
Not pointing, waving, or using gestures
Limited eye contact
18 months:
Fewer than 10 words
Not pointing to show you things they find interesting
Not following simple one-step instructions ("come here," "give me")
Losing words they previously used — this always warrants prompt assessment
2 years:
Fewer than 50 words
Not combining two words ("more milk," "daddy go")
Strangers can't understand most of what they say
Relying mostly on gestures rather than words
3 years:
Strangers understand less than 75% of their speech
Not using simple sentences
Difficulty answering simple questions
Not engaging in back-and-forth conversation
4–5 years:
Still leaving off sounds at the beginning or end of words
Difficulty being understood outside the family
Struggles to tell a simple story or recount an event
Difficulty following multi-step directions
School age:
Difficulty with reading or spelling (often connected to earlier language delays)
Avoidance of speaking in class or social situations
Stuttering that affects confidence or participation
Difficulty understanding figurative language, jokes, or sarcasm
Signs That Warrant Prompt Attention at Any Age
These signs should always be followed up quickly — don't wait and see:
Regression — losing words, sounds, or skills previously mastered
Frustration — frequent meltdowns or withdrawal because of communication difficulty
No functional communication — not able to communicate basic wants and needs in any way
Feeding difficulties — gagging, refusing textures, significant mealtime distress
"But My Doctor Said to Wait and See"
This is one of the most common things I hear from parents. And while some children do catch up on their own, research consistently shows that early intervention leads to faster and more complete progress.
The risks of waiting are real — especially for children who are approaching school age, where language skills directly affect reading, writing, and learning.
Here's the thing: there is no downside to getting an assessment. If everything is on track, you'll have peace of mind. If support is needed, you'll have started at the best possible time.
What About Bilingual Children?
Bilingual children may have smaller vocabularies in each individual language but their total vocabulary across both languages should still be within typical range. Bilingualism does not cause speech or language delays. If you're concerned about a bilingual child, an SLP experienced with multilingual families can help you interpret what's typical and what warrants support.
What Happens During a Speech-Language Assessment?
An assessment with Julie typically includes:
A detailed parent interview about your child's history and current communication
Standardized and informal assessment of speech sounds, language, and/or social communication
Observation of your child in naturalistic interaction
A written report with findings and recommendations
A follow-up conversation to discuss next steps
Assessments are available in Calgary and virtually across Alberta, BC, and Arizona.
Trust Your Instincts
If you've read this far, something prompted you to search for this information. That instinct matters. Parents notice things first — and getting an assessment doesn't mean something is seriously wrong. It means you're being proactive about your child's development.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation with Julie (https://www.juliestockdaleslp.com/contact)
Download the Free 10-Minute Daily Speech Routine
While you're waiting for an assessment — or if you just want to support your child's communication at home — download the free 10-Minute Daily Speech Routine. Simple, evidence-based strategies you can start today.
Follow Julie on YouTube at @TheSpeechTherapistMom for weekly speech and language tips for parents.
Julie Stockdale is a pediatric speech-language pathologist with 15+ years of experience supporting children and families in Calgary and virtually across Canada and the United States. She holds dual certification (CCC-SLP and SAC-SLP) and is registered in Alberta, BC, and Arizona.
