The following is a list of general factors compiled by Magan Chen (our Principal Speech Language Therapist / Pathologist) based on actual clinical practice helping children in their speech and language development.
Almost all of our first time therapy clients have found this list extremely informative.
Factors Affecting Child Speech and Language Development
Inadequate stimulation (talking and playing with the child).
Delayed general development (‘global developmental delay’), physical development (‘motor skills’), cognitive development etc.
Specific difficulty with language learning. Not very interested in language, prefers other modalities e.g. physical activities.
Poor control and/or co-ordination of the speech muscles: lips, tongue etc.
Medical problems.
Inadequate awareness of communication, lacks “communication intent”.
Reduced hearing e.g. ear infection, fluid in ear, impacted earwax etc.
Changes in child’s environment e.g. moving.
Exposure to too many languages for the child.
Inadequate opportunity for speech e.g. the child everyone talks for, the “babied” child, has a more dominant sibling etc.
Emotional factors e.g. behavioural problems, anxiety, pressure to perform etc.
Short attention span.
Family history of speech and language delays or difficulties.