When should I see a speech pathologist?

Toddler – 1 to 3 years

It’s important to remember that all children develop at different rates. You may like to seek further advice if your child displays the following:

At 2 years:

Says less than 50 words

Does not use 2-word phrases

Cannot follow simple directions or answer questions

Has no interest in other children

Uses limited pretend play with toys

Speech is very unclear

  • An unfamiliar listener should be able to understand about half of what they say by 2 years.

At 3 years:

Has trouble communicating in short phrases

Doesn't understand what others are saying to him/her

Not sustaining interactions or having simple conversations

Not imitating social behaviours during play

  • pretending to talk on telephone, feeding doll/teddy

Speech is very unclear

  • unfamiliar listener should understand most of what they say

You can get help from:

  • A Speech Pathologist
  • Your Child Health Nurse
  • Your GP
  • A Paediatrician
baby – 3 to 12 months
preschooler – 3 to 5 years