Experience with Delayed Speech in 2 Year-old

Hi J.. Your son sounds like a very bright little boy but I understand your concern. My nephew was just evaluated by early intervention last week (he will be four next month). He has shown signs of a speech delay for quite a while now and I think it might have been helpful if my sister had taken him sooner. But the doctor always assured her that everything was fine so she was a little hesitant. When she did decide to make an appointment there was a three month waiting list, and the results take three weeks to come after the appointment. Children develop differently. It sounds like your son is just fine but I don't see any harm in getting the evaluation.

Hi! I am a speech language pathologist, so your question is right up my alley! I always say to err on the side of caution, that is have your son evaluated by early intervention. In all likelyhood he will be fine but it would be a good idea to jump start his expressive language skills if there is a delay. In the event he does not qualify you can always look for private therapy. E-mail me if you have any questions!
M.

Hi J.,

I don't think your issue is totally unusual so I'm sure there is nothing to completely freaked out about. I do not personally have experience with this, but my friend's son has the same problem. He understands everything, but is not speaking. He just turned 2 as well. She was able to get speech therapy provided by the county (Chester County). They travel to her home. Perhaps you live in Chester County or whatever county you live in has something similar. Good luck and keep positive!

Hi J.,

My 2 yr old son is getting Speech through Early Intervention. One good 'tip' I received was- try not to anticipate his needs- We know our children so well that we often give them what they want without them even asking for it. Try to encourage him to say what he needs by playing dumb briefly...
"What is it you need? Mommy doesn't understand... Oh! You want your drink! Next time tell Mommy 'drink.'" My son would always smile at me and repeat the word back.. it was kind of a game and it helped.
Definately, follow through w/ the Early Intervention Evaluation. They are great--- even if your son only ends up needing it for a short time. Good Luck!