Communication difficulties can affect how children understand and use language. Children with these difficulties may struggle with speaking, understanding, or both. They might use short sentences, mix up word order, or say “um” often. These challenges can make it hard for them at home, in school, and with friends.
Communication difficulties are different from speech sound disorders. Speech sound disorders are where the child has trouble making sounds, whereas with communication difficulties, the child can make sounds but has trouble using them to communicate. Children with these difficulties need extra help to improve their language skills.
What is typical?
Communication skills develop over time as children grow. Most children reach certain milestones as they learn to communicate. Here’s what you might expect to see at different ages:
- By age 2: Children can usually say a few words and understand simple instructions.
- By age 3: Children can speak in short sentences and follow simple directions.
- By age 4: Children can tell simple stories and understand basic concepts like colours and shapes.
- By age 5: Children can use full sentences and understand more complex instructions.
- By ages 6-7: Children can have conversations and understand stories which are read to them.
- By ages 8-9: Children can understand jokes and riddles and use language to express their thoughts clearly.
- By ages 10-11: Children can use language to learn new information and explain their ideas.
- By ages 12-14: Children can use language to discuss abstract ideas and understand different points of view.
When should I be concerned?
There are signs that a child might be having communication difficulties. These signs can vary based on the child’s age.
Children may have trouble learning and using language, both spoken and written. They might struggle with vocabulary, sentence structure, or having conversations. They may use short, simple sentences or put words in the wrong order. They might say “um” a lot or repeat parts of questions before answering.
Children with communication difficulties might avoid talking to people they don’t know well.
Moreover, these children may have a limited vocabulary, which can add to communication difficulties. They may also have trouble organising their thoughts or following directions.
What can I do to help?
As a caregiver, you can try several things to help a child with communication difficulties:
- Simplify your language: Use simple words and short sentences when speaking to your child. This helps them understand better.
- Be direct: Clearly say what you mean. Avoid using too many words or complicated sentences.
- Encourage repetition: Ask your child to repeat what you said to ensure they understand.
- Read together: Read bedtime stories out loud and discuss them. This helps build vocabulary and comprehension.
- Play language games: Engage in games that involve naming objects, describing things, or storytelling.
- Use visual aids: Use pictures or gestures to help your child understand words and concepts.
- Provide positive feedback: Praise your child for their efforts and progress in communication.
What kind of professional support can I seek out?
If your child’s communication difficulties last more than a few weeks, ask for an evaluation from a professional or get help from your child’s school. Getting help early is better for your child’s communication skills and self-esteem.
Speech-language therapists are professionals who can help children with communication challenges. They use special techniques to improve language and speech skills. Early intervention is key to helping your child succeed.
Public services are also available at your local clinic.
When looking for affordable services, it may also be helpful to explore local non-governmental organisations which offer services to families such as nonprofit organisations
Local universities may offer services to the public as part of professional training programmes.
Please don’t give up if you don’t have success in your first attempts at getting help. Go back to the services listed above and look at our online list for additional resources or support. Your child is worth the effort.
Where to find more information
For detailed information on mental health conditions, visit our guides for health professionals.