🗣️ “Is This Just a Phase?” When to Seek Speech-Language Support

Is This Just A Phase?

Many parents and caregivers wonder:
“Is my child just developing at their own pace, or could they benefit from speech-language therapy?”

It’s a question we hear often — and it’s completely normal to have concerns. Every child is unique, and development doesn’t always follow a straight line. At Communicating Together Therapy & Wellness Associates, we’re here to help you feel confident in knowing when to reach out for support.

🧒 Common Signs to Watch For

While no two children are the same, here are some signs that may indicate your child could benefit from a speech-language assessment:

For Infants & Toddlers:

• Limited babbling or vocal play by 7 months
• Few gestures (like pointing or waving) by 12 months
• Not saying first words by 12 months (children typically begin saying 1–2 words between 10–12 months)
• Difficulty responding to simple words, phrases, or questions by 12 months (e.g., “Look at mommy”; “Where’s teddy?”)
• Not following two-step directions by 24 months – e.g., “Get the cup, and put it on the table” (children typically follow two-step instructions at 19-24 months)
• Not combining 2 words (e.g., “more milk”, “car up”) by 24 months (children typically put two or more words together at 19-24 months)
• Stuttering.

For Preschool & Early Elementary Children:

• Struggling to put words together into sentences
• Other people find their speech hard to understand
• Frequent frustration when trying to communicate
• Issues with early literacy skills (e.g., rhyming, identifying sounds)
• Reluctant talking, communication anxiety, or avoidance of social situations
• Stuttering.

For Older Children & Teens:

• Difficulty expressing ideas clearly in conversation or writing
• Challenges understanding verbal or written instructions
• Issues navigating social situations or maintaining conversations
• Anxiety or withdrawal in communication-heavy environments
• Stuttering.

📚 Find More Information: ASHA Early Communication Milestones

As of October 2024, Speech-Language & Audiology Canada (SAC) recommends using the early communication milestones developed by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Understanding these benchmarks can help you seek support early — rather than waiting and worrying:  ASHA Communication Milestones.

🤝 Support, Not Pressure

As a parent or caregiver, it can feel overwhelming to wonder whether your child is “behind.” Reaching out doesn’t mean you’re overreacting; think of it as gaining insight. A speech-language assessment is a gentle, collaborative process that simply helps us understand how your child is communicating and how we can support their growth using their strengths. Sometimes the reassurance that everything is developing well can be just as valuable.

💬 What Happens If You Contact Us?

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to chat. Here’s what connecting with our speech-language pathologist looks like:

1. Initial phone conversation – A free, 10-15 minute, no-pressure opportunity to ask questions and allow our speech-language pathologist to learn more about your child and your priorities.
2. Assessment – If needed/wanted, we offer personalized evaluations in a comfortable, child-friendly environment.
3. Next steps – We’ll review the results together and develop a plan, if appropriate, that aligns with your family’s goals and values.

🌟 Your Child Deserves to Be Understood

Every child deserves to feel confident, heard, and supported in how they communicate. Whether you’re reaching out for reassurance or seeking hands-on help, you’re not alone. At Communicating Together, we’re here to listen — and to help you and your child thrive together.

📍 Private Speech Therapy in Waterloo, Ontario

Located in north Waterloo, Ontario, we welcome families from diverse backgrounds and stages of development in a warm, inclusive setting.

📩 Ready to Connect? Start the Conversation About Communication Support

If you’re wondering whether private speech-language therapy might be right for your child or teen, get in touch—we’re here when you’re ready. Contact us to start the conversation.

📚 Looking for More? Explore Our Resources and Family-Friendly Strategies

👉 Stop the Guilt: A Speech Therapist’s Message to Parents

👉 Read more on our blog

📱 Follow Us on Social Media

Follow along on social media for tips, encouragement, and resources (links are at the bottom of every page on our website).

📝 A Note to Parents & Guardians

Thank you for all you do to support your child. You’re not alone on this journey.

👋 Take care,
Rhonda MacKinnon, M.Sc., S‑LP(C), Reg. CASLPO – Speech‑Language Pathologist