Speech Delay? How to Help Your Child Talk More

Other kids their age are chatting away, and yours says only a few words. The worry is real — and so is your power to help.

Speech blooms through everyday connection, not flashcards. Small changes in how you talk and play can spark big leaps.

Everyday ways to boost talking

• Narrate your day. "We're washing the red apple." Bathe them in words.
• Pause and wait. Count to five after asking — give them room to respond.
• Expand, don't correct. Child: "ball!" You: "Yes, a big bouncy ball!"
• Read every day. Point, name, and let them turn the pages.
• Cut the screens. Real back-and-forth talk builds language; passive video doesn't.

When to seek extra help

Trust your gut — early support makes a huge difference, and these strategies help every child communicate with more confidence.