เรื่องควรรู้เกี่ยวกับ “พูดช้า” ในเด็ก
(Pediatrics Center) article author : Supitcha Thamissarakul, M.D. 2026-06-16 16:31:00
HIGHLIGHTS :
• Speech delay is commonly observed in children between 18 months and 3 years of age.
• Early warning signs include limited vocabulary, poor response to their name, and difficulty understanding simple instructions.
• Common causes may involve hearing problems, developmental delays, or limited interaction and stimulation.
• Early support and language stimulation can help improve communication skills and overall development.
• Children who speak fewer than 50 words at age 2 or cannot form sentences by age 3 should be evaluated by a doctor.
• Spending quality time with your child and limiting screen time are essential for healthy speech and language development.
Things to Know About Speech Delay in Children
“Is my child just a late talker, or is there a developmental concern?” This is a common question many parents ask when they notice that their child speaks only a few words or has difficulty communicating clearly. Although speech delay is not always a sign of a serious condition, early observation and appropriate support can greatly improve a child’s language and communication skills. This article provides an overview of speech delay in children, including warning signs, common causes, ways to encourage language development, and when parents should seek medical advice to help their child reach their full potential.
1. What Is Speech Delay? & When Is It Commonly Seen?
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Speech delay refers to a condition in which a child develops speech and language skills more slowly than expected for their age.
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It does not always indicate a serious illness, but early observation and intervention are important.
Speech delay is commonly observed between 18 months and 3 years of age.
2. Signs to Watch For
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At 18 months, the child is not yet speaking single words.
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At 2 years old, the child has fewer than 50 words.
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At 3 years old, the child speaks only short phrases that are unclear or difficult to understand.
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The child rarely responds when called by name.
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The child has difficulty understanding simple instructions.
3. Common Causes
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Hearing impairment
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Developmental delay
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Limited interaction within the environment
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Inappropriate caregiving or lack of stimulation
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Other behavioral or medical conditions
4. Risk Factors
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Premature birth
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Low birth weight
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Delays in other developmental areas
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Family history of speech delay (parents or siblings)
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A language-poor environment with limited communication
5. Ways to Encourage Speech and Language Development
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Talk to your child frequently using short and clear sentences.
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Read storybooks, sing songs, and engage in pretend play.
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Encourage your child to play and communicate with family members and peers.
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Praise your child’s efforts to communicate, even if their speech is not yet clear.
6. When Should You See a Doctor?
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If your child is 2 years old and speaks fewer than 50 words.
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If your child is 3 years old and is unable to speak in sentences.
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If there are other concerning behaviors, such as poor eye contact, lack of response, or frequent irritability.
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If you have any concerns, consult a developmental and behavioral pediatrician for further evaluation.
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