As parents, it can be hard to know whether your child’s speech and language development is on track or if it’s time to seek extra support. Every child develops at their own pace, but there are certain signs that may indicate your child could benefit from speech therapy. At Gro Speech in Bozeman, Montana, we specialize in helping children grow their communication, feeding, and social skills so they can thrive at home, in school, and in the community.
Pediatric speech therapy supports children who have difficulty with speaking, understanding language, social communication, or feeding and swallowing. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) works with children to build the skills they need to communicate more effectively. At Gro Speech, our team also collaborates with occupational therapists allowing children to benefit from a more comprehensive approach.
1. Limited Vocabulary or Late Talking
By age two, most children are using at least 50 words and starting to combine them into simple phrases. If your toddler isn’t using words to communicate or seems frustrated when trying to express themselves, an evaluation may be helpful.
2. Trouble Understanding Directions
If your child has a hard time following simple directions like “get your shoes” or “put the toy in the box,” it may signal a language comprehension delay.
3. Unclear Speech
While some mispronunciations are normal, if your child’s speech is very difficult to understand compared to other children their age, it may be time to explore therapy.
4. Stuttering or Repeating Sounds
Repetitions, long pauses, or tension when speaking may indicate a fluency disorder. Early support can make a big difference.
5. Feeding or Swallowing Concerns
Some children struggle with chewing, swallowing, or accepting a variety of foods. Feeding therapy, provided by a speech or occupational therapist trained in oral-motor/feeding skills, can help.
The earlier a child receives support, the easier it is to build strong communication foundations. Early speech therapy can help prevent frustration, improve confidence, and set your child up for success in school and social situations.
When families come to Gro Speech, we start with a thorough evaluation to understand your child’s unique strengths and needs. From there, we create a customized therapy plan that may include:
If you have concerns about your child’s speech, language, or feeding development, trust your instincts. You don’t need to wait until your child is older or “catches up.” Reaching out for a speech therapy evaluation can provide peace of mind and the right support at the right time.
At Gro Speech, we are here to partner with Montana families every step of the way.
Contact Gro Speech today to schedule a pediatric speech therapy evaluation in Bozeman or learn more about teletherapy options across Montana.
