Speech Therapy Tips for Parents: Helping Your Child Communicate
Wondering if your child is on track with talking and understanding language? Learn easy tips, milestones, and when to seek help from a speech-language professional.
As a parent, it’s normal to wonder, “Is my child talking enough? Are they keeping up with other kids?” Understanding speech and language development in children can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect at different ages, practical tips you can try at home, and simple ways to know when it might be time to get extra support. By the end, you’ll have a handful of strategies to help your child communicate with confidence — without feeling stressed or confused.
TL;DR — Speech and Language Development
- Speech vs. Language: Speech = sounds; Language = understanding and using words
- Milestones:
- Toddlers (1–3 yrs): 50+ words, 2-word combos, follow simple directions
- Preschoolers (3–5 yrs): Complete sentences, ask questions, understandable to new adults
- Early Elementary (5–7 yrs): Tell short stories, complex sentences, follow classroom instructions
- Red Flags: Limited vocabulary, hard to understand, struggles to combine words, difficulty following instructions
- Tips for Parents: Read aloud, sing rhymes, encourage pretend play, create quiet talking spaces
- When to Seek Help: Persistent challenges, delays affecting social/academic/emotional development, consult a speech-language pathologist
- Resources: Books: My First 100 Words, From Sounds to Sentences; Apps: Speech Blubs, Endless Alphabet; Trusted sources: ASHA, CDC Milestones
Understanding Speech and Language Development
Speech vs. Language: What’s the Difference?
It’s easy to mix these up:
Speech is the sounds your child makes — how they pronounce words and sentences.
Language is how they understand and use words to communicate ideas.
Both are important, and both develop in stages. Knowing the difference can help you see where your child might need a little extra support.
Typical Milestones by Age
Here’s a quick snapshot of what’s normal at different ages
Toddlers (1–3 years):
Using 50+ words by age 2
Combining two words (“more juice”)
Following simple directions
Preschoolers (3–5 years):
Speaking in complete sentences
Asking lots of questions
Being understood by new adults
Early Elementary (5–7 years):
Telling short stories in order
Using complex sentences
Following most classroom instructions
Tip: Every child develops at their own pace — milestones are a guide, not a rule.
Signs Your Child Might Need Extra Support
Sometimes, kids just take their time — but other times, extra support helps them catch up. Look out for:
Limited vocabulary for their age
Struggling to be understood by family or friends
Difficulty combining words into sentences
Trouble following simple instructions
If these challenges are consistent, it may be worth considering a speech-language evaluation. Parents often Google: “How do I know if my child needs speech therapy?” — this is a good starting point.
Practical Tips and Activities You Can Try at Home
You don’t need a fancy setup — just everyday moments. Here are some simple, fun ways to encourage communication:
1. Read Together
Pick a favorite story and read it aloud daily
Ask questions about the pictures or story
Encourage your child to retell parts of the story in their own words
2. Sing and Play Word Games
Nursery rhymes help with rhythm and new words
Play “I Spy” or rhyming games to build vocabulary
3. Encourage Play-Based Conversation
Pretend play with dolls, action figures, or kitchen sets naturally sparks talking
Narrate what your child is doing: “You’re stirring the soup — yum!”
4. Make Home Communication-Friendly
Limit background noise during conversations
Give your child enough time to respond
Repeat words clearly instead of correcting constantly
These small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time.
Working With a Speech-Language Pathologist
Sometimes kids need a little extra help from a professional.
Here’s what to expect:
What an Evaluation Looks Like
Observation of speech sounds and language comprehension
Questions about your child’s development and daily communication
Recommendations for therapy or home practice
How Therapy Helps
Tailored activities that meet your child’s needs
Guidance for practicing at home
Tracking progress to help your child reach milestones
Supporting your child’s speech and language development doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Small, consistent actions — reading, singing, and playing together — can make a huge difference.
If you notice persistent challenges, don’t wait to seek help. A speech-language pathologist can provide personalized guidance and support your child’s confidence in communicating.
What’s Next:
Download our free Speech and Language Activities Guide
Schedule a consultation with a certified speech-language pathologist
