Don’t Wait to Communicate: The Benefits of Early Speech & Language Therapy

Many parents wonder whether they should wait and see if their child’s speech and language skills develop on their own. While it’s natural to hope that a child will "grow out of it", research strongly supports early intervention as the best approach. Here’s why:

1. Little Brains Learn Fast: The Best Time to Start is Now

   
   

   During the first few years of life, the brain is highly adaptable, making it easier for children to learn new skills—including speech and language! Early therapy takes advantage of this natural learning window, leading to quicker progress.

   (Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000)

   
   

2. Less Frustration, More Communication

   
   

   Children with speech and language delays may struggle to express their thoughts, leading to frustration, tantrums, or social withdrawal. Early intervention helps give them the tools they need to communicate successfully, reducing stress for both kids and parents.

   (Kelly et al., 2019)

   
   

3. Strong Speech Skills Help in School

   
   

   Good communication skills are the foundation for learning. Children with speech or language delays may find it harder to follow instructions, participate in class, and develop early reading skills. Research shows that early speech support helps set the stage for academic success.

   (Snowling & Hulme, 2012)

   
   

4. Talking = Connecting: Speech and Social Skills Go Hand in Hand

   
   

   Making friends and interacting with others depends on strong communication. Kids with speech delays may struggle to engage with peers, which can impact their confidence and social development. Early speech therapy helps children build the skills they need to connect with others.

   (Conti-Ramsden et al., 2018)

   
   

5. The Earlier, the Easier: Catching Up Gets Harder Over Time

   
   

   Starting speech therapy early with a knowledgeable speech-language pathologist can lead to faster progress and more efficient goal achievement. Waiting to address speech or language concerns may result in a longer duration of therapy and the need for more sessions to reach the same outcomes.

   (Guralnick, 2011)

   
   

6. "Wait and See" Can Mean Missing Important Milestones

   
   

   While some children do catch up on their own, many do not. Delaying intervention can mean missing a crucial period for learning and growth. Experts, including the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), recommend seeking professional guidance as soon as concerns arise.

   (ASHA, 2020)

   
   

Early intervention gives children the confidence and skills to communicate, learn, and

thrive! If you’re concerned about your child’s speech or language development, don’t

wait—reach out to a speech-language pathologist today.

References

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (2020). The Importance of Early Intervention for Speech and Language Disorders. Retrieved from www.asha.org.

• Conti-Ramsden, G., Durkin, K., Toseeb, U., Botting, N., & Pickles, A. (2018). Developmental language disorder and social relationships: A prospective study from childhood to adulthood. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 59(7), 810-821.

• Guralnick, M. J. (2011). Why early intervention works: A systems perspective. Infants & Young Children, 24(1), 6-28.

• Kelly, H., Nash, M., & Snow, P. (2019). Language competence and social behavior: A systematic review. International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 21(3), 259-278.

• Shonkoff, J. P., & Phillips, D. A. (2000). From neurons to neighborhoods: The science of early childhood development. National Academies Press.

• Snowling, M. J., & Hulme, C. (2012). Interventions for children's language and literacy difficulties. International Journal of Language & Communication Disorders, 47(1), 27-34.

• ChatGPT (2025). Generated response on early intervention in speech therapy. OpenAI.