SPEECH MYTHS
Have you ever heard any of these myths before? Let’s break it down.
MYTH: Using sign language will delay verbal speech.”
TRUTH: Sign language used with verbal speech only enhances language. Children first use gestures and non-verbal speech to communicate and signs can help reduce communication frustrations.
MYTH: “Speaking more than one language will cause a speech delay.”
TRUTH: Not true! There are many benefits to bilingualism/multilingualism such as: having increased memory and concentration, increased ability to multitask, high level of abstract learning, better language and vocabulary, as well as improved social life/family connections.
MYTH: “My child is just lazy, he can talk but just would rather grunt.“
TRUTH: If a child could, they would! Children communicate the quickest and most efficient way that is available to them. Often times understanding comes before expression while still learning complex motor patterns needed for verbal speech. Need to know 12 month milestones? Check them here.
MYTH: "You just should wait and see for your child to talk.”
TRUTH: Recent research has shown that strongly suggest the "wait and see" approach is outdated. The first 3 years of a child's life are a critical period for a child's brain development, which is why early intervention is KEY!
MYTH: “Use flashcards to teach your child how to talk.”
TRUTH: Play with your child and follow their lead/interests instead! Studies have shown that children learn best through playful interactions. Functional language is built from play and real-life interactions vs picture naming. Need toy ideas? Here are some favorites!
MYTH: “Late talkers always just catch up”.
TRUTH: Yes, some late talkers catch up on their own but research indicates that approx. 40-50% of children who are late to talk (who have typical skills in other areas) do not catch up on their own. If you have concerns, an evaluation is helpful to learn about your child and their needs.
Which one have you heard? Want to learn strategies to break these patterns? Let’s work together 1:1!
This was originally done as a collaborative post with Grace at Graceful Expressions.
