Arun Mallikarjunan, Author at New Horizons Wellness Services

Many parents do not recognize the early signs of a critical health issue: communication disorders. Speech, language, and hearing disorders are among the most common disabilities in the United States, with 8-9% of young children suffering from speech disorders. This month, during the national observance of Better Hearing and Speech Month, I encourage parents to take stock of their child’s communication health. Sometimes, problems achieving academically, or social or behavioral issues in school, may be the result of an undiagnosed speech or hearing disorder. It is important for parents to be attuned to the early warning signs of these conditions. In young children, early treatment can help prevent them from falling behind academically, socially, and in other key areas at a critical time in their development. Signs of Common Speech and Language Disorders in Children Between Birth to 4 Years of Age An important stage in early detection of communication disorders, include: ● Does not interact socially (infancy and older) ● Does not follow or understand what you say (starting at 1 year) ● Says only a few sounds or words or makes only a few gestures (18 months to 2 years) ● Says words that are not easily understood (18 months to 2 years) ● Does not combine words (starting at 2 years) ● Struggles to say sounds or words (To see the age range during which most children develop each sound, visit Talking Child’s speech chart.) The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), through its Identify the Signs campaign, offers many resources to help parents learn about these disorders. Visit http://identifythesigns.org to learn more about what to watch for and treatment options. Conclusion Better Hearing and Speech Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and intervention for communication disorders in young children. With as many as 8–9% of children affected by speech, language, or hearing challenges, it’s crucial that parents stay alert to early warning signs—such as delayed speech, difficulty understanding language, or limited social interaction. These issues can often be mistaken for academic or behavioral struggles when they may actually signal a deeper communication concern. Recognizing the signs early and seeking professional guidance can make a life-changing difference in a child’s development, helping them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. At New Horizons Wellness Services, our team is here to support families through this journey with a range of integrated services: ● Counseling Services help children and their families process emotional and behavioral challenges that may arise from communication barriers, anxiety, or frustration. ● Occupational Therapy Services address the sensory, cognitive, and motor skills that often accompany or impact speech and language development, helping children engage more successfully in daily activities. ● Pediatric Occupational Therapy supports developmental milestones by targeting areas such as fine motor coordination, social interaction, and self-regulation—crucial for children facing speech and language delays. ● Occupational Therapy for Adults provides strategies for caregivers or adults with communication or processing challenges of their own, offering tools to enhance understanding, interaction, and daily function. ● Social Skills Groups are designed to help children strengthen peer relationships and communication confidence through guided group activities and therapist-led interaction practice. New Horizons Wellness Services is committed to helping every child reach their full potential. Contact us now to learn how we can support your family with personalized care and expertise or dial this number (503) 352-0240 if you have any concerns about your child’s speech or language or to schedule a speech and/or language evaluation. By staying informed and proactive, parents can give their children the tools they need to succeed—not just in school, but in life. Visit Identify the Signs to learn more, and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support if you notice something concerning. Early action can make all the difference. Frequently Asked Questions: What should I do if I suspect my child has a speech or language delay but hasn’t been formally diagnosed yet? If you notice signs such as limited vocabulary, unclear speech, or trouble understanding instructions, it’s important to seek professional evaluation. At New Horizons Wellness Services, our Pediatric Occupational Therapy and Counseling Services teams can help assess developmental milestones and provide early intervention strategies to support your child’s growth—even before a formal diagnosis is made. Can communication disorders in young children affect their emotional and social development? Yes, communication challenges can lead to frustration, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal, especially if children struggle to express themselves or connect with peers. New Horizons Wellness Services offers Social Skills Groups and Counseling Services that focus on improving emotional regulation and building confidence in social interactions. How does occupational therapy support children with speech or hearing disorders? Occupational therapy can improve underlying skills like attention, sensory processing, fine motor coordination, and posture—factors that directly impact speech and communication. At New Horizons Wellness Services, our Occupational Therapy Services are tailored to help children participate more fully in daily routines, therapy sessions, and classroom settings.

New Horizons Wellness Services

Author: Arun Mallikarjunan

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