0021 - Why Your Child Isn’t Speaking Yet (And What to Do)

Discover effective speech therapy techniques to help pre-verbal children develop communication skills! In this episode of Unraveling the Brain, Dr. Josh Madsen sits down with speech-language pathologist Matthew Klein to discuss strategies for parents and professionals working with kids who struggle with verbal communication, including those with autism.Learn how AAC devices, non-verbal communication cues, and early speech development techniques can unlock a child’s ability to express themselves. If you’re a parent wondering how to support your child’s speech and language development, this conversation is packed with practical tips that can be implemented today.Book your exam or intensive today in Minnesota - https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/BPuDwpp2ki72wIxmLX8USpeech & Language Development Milestones: What to Look for at Each StageBirth to 3 Months✔️ Turns head toward sounds✔️ Reacts to loud noises (startles or quiets)✔️ Begins making cooing sounds (“ooh” and “ahh”)✔️ Shows different cries for different needs (hungry, tired, etc.)4 to 6 Months✔️ Babbles with different sounds (ba-ba, da-da)✔️ Laughs and giggles✔️ Makes sounds in response to voices✔️ Turns eyes or head toward talking7 to 12 Months✔️ Recognizes and responds to their name✔️ Understands simple words like “no” and “bye-bye”✔️ Points, waves, claps✔️ Uses more varied babbling (mamama, dadada)✔️ Tries to imitate speech sounds12 to 18 Months✔️ Says 5-10 words meaningfully✔️ Understands simple directions (“Get the ball”)✔️ Points to objects when named✔️ Uses gestures along with speech attempts18 to 24 Months✔️ Uses at least 50 words✔️ Combines two words (“want cookie”)✔️ Begins asking simple questions✔️ Points to body parts when asked✔️ Understands simple yes/no questions2 to 3 Years✔️ Uses simple sentences (3+ words)✔️ Follows two-step directions (“Get your shoes and come here”)✔️ Names familiar objects and people✔️ Asks “what” and “where” questions✔️ Speech is understood by familiar people most of the time3 to 4 Years✔️ Uses full sentences with 4+ words✔️ Asks lots of questions (“Why? How?”)✔️ Tells simple stories✔️ Can have back-and-forth conversations✔️ Speech is mostly understood, even by strangers16 Gestures by 16 MonthsMatthew Klein also highlighted these essential non-verbal communication skills that predict strong language development:🔹 Pointing🔹 Waving🔹 Clapping🔹 Showing objects🔹 Blowing kisses🔹 Nodding yes/no🔹 Reaching to be picked up🔹 Shaking head for “no”🔹 Giving objects to others🔹 Raising arms (“pick me up”)If your child isn’t using these gestures by 16 months, it may be a sign to start early intervention.Disclaimer:The information in this video is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions about a medical condition or your child’s development. Individual results may vary, and the strategies discussed may not be appropriate for every child. Please consult a healthcare professional before making decisions related to your child’s health or development.📌 Watch on Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoshMadsen📌 Follow us on Instagram: @drjoshmadsen📌 Follow us on Facebook: Infinity Functional Neurology📧 For inquiries, contact us at mediateam@iowainfinity