Parent Guide: When to Seek Speech Therapy

If you have any concerns about your child's communication development, trust your instincts and seek an evaluation. Early intervention leads to the best outcomes.

What Does a Speech-Language Pathologist Do?

A speech-language pathologist (SLP) is a licensed professional who evaluates and treats communication and swallowing disorders. SLPs work with children and adults on speech sounds, language, fluency, voice, and feeding.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from an Evaluation

Age	Consider a Referral If…
By 12 months	Not babbling; not using gestures (pointing, waving); not responding to name
By 16 months	No single words (mama, dada, uh-oh)
By 24 months	Fewer than 50 words; not combining 2 words; less than 50% intelligible
By 3 years	Strangers can't understand most of what child says; not using sentences
By 4 years	Difficulty being understood; leaving out many sounds; stuttering
Any age	Loss of previously acquired language or social skills

What to Expect at an Evaluation

Parent interview — the SLP will ask about your child's history, concerns, and daily communication
Standardized testing — age-appropriate tests to measure language and speech skills
Observation — the SLP will observe your child during play and interaction
Results and recommendations — you'll receive a full report with findings and next steps

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my child "grow out of it"?

Some children do catch up on their own, but research shows that early intervention produces significantly better outcomes than a "wait and see" approach. An evaluation will tell you whether intervention is needed.

Does my child need a doctor's referral?

In most states, you can contact an SLP directly without a referral. However, some insurance plans require a physician referral for coverage — check with your insurer.

What if English is not our first language?

Bilingual children may mix languages, but milestones should be met across both languages combined. An SLP experienced with bilingual development can evaluate your child appropriately.

Ready to schedule an evaluation? Contact LexiMind Speech at (214) 997-3481 or info@leximindmarketplace.com. We're here to help.