My 15 Month Old Doesn't Talk: What You Need To Know

Introduction

As a parent, it can be worrying when your 15-month-old child doesn’t talk. You may start to wonder if there’s something wrong with your child’s development, or if you’re doing something wrong as a parent. However, it’s important to remember that every child develops at their own pace, and there’s usually no cause for concern until a child reaches 18 to 24 months without speaking any words.

When to Worry

While it’s common for children to be late talkers, there are some signs to look out for that may indicate a more serious problem. If your child isn’t babbling or making any sounds by 12 months, isn’t responding to their name, or seems to have trouble hearing, it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician.

Causes of Speech Delay

There are many factors that can contribute to a delay in speech development. Some children may simply be late bloomers, while others may have a hearing problem or a speech disorder. Other factors, such as premature birth, a family history of speech delay, or exposure to multiple languages, can also play a role.

What You Can Do

Encourage Communication

Even if your child isn’t speaking yet, there are still ways you can encourage communication. Spend time talking to your child, using simple words and phrases. Encourage your child to make sounds and repeat words, and respond to any attempts at communication.

Read and Sing

Reading and singing to your child can also help with speech development. Choose books with simple words and pictures, and sing nursery rhymes or other songs with repetitive lyrics. This can help your child learn new words and practice their language skills.

Play and Interact

Playing and interacting with your child is also important for speech development. Engage in games that involve taking turns, such as peek-a-boo or imitation games. Encourage your child to point to objects and name them, or to make sounds and gestures.

When to Seek Help

Talk to Your Pediatrician

If you’re concerned about your child’s speech development, talk to your pediatrician. They can perform a hearing test and refer you to a speech therapist if necessary. Early intervention is key when it comes to speech delays, so don’t hesitate to seek help if you have concerns.

Speech Therapy

If your child is diagnosed with a speech disorder, speech therapy may be recommended. This can involve working with a speech therapist to learn new communication skills and practice speaking. Therapy may also involve working on other areas, such as listening and social skills.

Conclusion

In most cases, a 15-month-old child who isn’t talking yet is simply a late bloomer. However, it’s important to be aware of the signs of a more serious problem and to seek help if necessary. By encouraging communication, reading and singing, and playing with your child, you can help support their speech development and set them up for success.