Contributed by Megan Ingram – Principal Speech Pathologist,
Peninsula Speech Pathology Services
Do you ever wonder if boys really do talk later than girls? Or if itโs confusing to speak two languages to a child? And when grandma says using a dummy is going to cause speech problems later, should you believe her?
1. You should never use โbaby talkโ with babies
โข False
It has been well established that babies prefer โbaby talkโ as it helps them pay closer attention to speech. โBaby talkโ makes it easier for babies to figure out how language works and which words are most important to the meaning of whatโs being said
2. Using โeducationalโ products, such as DVDs or flashcards stimulates young childrenโs language development.
โข False
While it can be tempting to purchase special products marketed as โeducationalโ for young children, these products are not necessarily effective in helping children learn how to communicate. Communication is social, flash cards are not โ Save your money โ play instead!
3. Using a dummy causes speech and language problems
โข Unclear
While the verdict may still be out about this issue, most professionals would agree that a child’s opportunities for babbling, imitating sounds, and engaging in conversations are reduced if she or he has a dummy in the mouth much of the time.
4. Boys talk later than girls.
โข True
It is true that boys produce their first words and sentences later than girls. However, these differences are only in terms of a matter of a few months. There is a normal range within which children acquire certain language milestones. Therefore, boys are not actually delayed in their language development, just a little behind girls. So if a young boy is really lagging behind in his speech and language development, donโt assume that itโs because heโs a boy and that itโs perfectly normal. He may require some speech and language intervention.
5. Learning two languages at the same time (bilingualism) causes language delays in young children.
โข False
Children learning two languages at the same time will go through the same developmental patterns in both of their languages and at roughly the same time as children learning one language
Megan Ingram – Principal Speech Pathologist
Peninsula Speech Pathology Services
is a private speech pathology practice with rooms in Mornington, Rosebud and Frankston. They provide services for children and adults.
For appointments, phone 5975 1500 or visit their website