Developmental Milestones Archives

Misleading Time.com Article Regarding Speech Screening

Time.com recently posted a story called "Why Screening Young Children for Language Delays Isn't Helpful". As a speech and language pathologist, I can tell you that language is a powerful device. Language is at it's most powerful when used to persuade or dissuade. The headline used by Alice Park of Time with the words "isn't helpful" is a conclusive, black and white statement, that would lead all parents to delay or forgo screening. Yet deep in her article it says research from the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) is inconclusive. "There’s not enough evidence to say that these instruments [...]

Speech Therapy Options Free and Paid

My 20 month old daughter seems to be behind in speaking compared to her 18 month old cousin. What should I do and if needed where should I look to for speech therapy options free and paid? (Megan P of three girls) First of all, language and speech development varies from child to child, so it’s never a good idea to compare your child with another to base concerns. Secondly, there is no age too young to start evaluating speech and language issues if the signs are there. Always remember, early intervention leads to the best long-term results. Finally, speech [...]