"Stryders Journey"

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is urging parents to consider the potential negative impact that having "a wait and see" approach can have for the communication development of children who are late talkers.

ASHA is raising its concerns in response to a recent study published in Pediatrics, the journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics, titled "Late Talking and the Risk for Psychosocial Problems During Childhood and Adolescence."

The study, which focused on late-talking 2-year-olds, found that early language delays do not necessarily lead to later behavioral and emotional problems, and it encourages being patient with late talkers.

ASHA is encouraging parents to take action if they have concerns about their child's language development. Don't wait—seek help from a speech-language pathologist.

Early identification and intervention can help children develop speech and language skills and prevent negative consequences, including difficulties with academics and social relationships.

For more information about speech and language disorders and prevention, visit www.asha.org. To find a speech-language pathologist in your local area, go to ProSearch at www.asha.org/findpro/.

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