7 Signs Your Child May Need a Speech Therapy Service in San Jose

Raising a child is a journey filled with milestones, from their first steps to their first words. While every child develops at their own pace, there are times when a little extra help can make a world of difference. When it comes to communication, noticing a delay or a difficulty can be concerning for any parent. Knowing when to seek professional help is crucial for a child's development and confidence. If you've been wondering if your child could benefit from a specialist, here are seven signs that they may need a speech therapy service in San Jose.

At Care Must Skilled Home Health, we understand that every child's needs are unique. Our mission is to provide compassionate, competent, and tailored care that helps children improve their communication skills in all environments.

1. Your Child Is Not Meeting Language Milestones

Pediatricians have a general timeline for when children should reach certain language milestones. If your child is behind on these, it might be a sign they need support. For example, a child who isn't babbling by 12 months, isn't using simple words like "mama" or "dada" by 18 months, or isn't speaking in two-word sentences by age two may need evaluation. Early intervention is key, so don't hesitate to seek guidance.

2. They Have Trouble Making Sounds

As children learn to speak, it's normal for them to mispronounce some sounds. However, if your child is consistently having difficulty with certain sounds past the expected age, it could be a sign of a speech sound disorder. For instance, if they still say "wabbit" instead of "rabbit" well into their preschool years, a speech therapy service in San Jose can help them learn to make these sounds correctly.

3. Others Find It Hard to Understand Them

If you, family members, or friends struggle to understand what your child is saying, it's a significant indicator of a potential issue. While you might be able to understand them, it's important to consider how well others can. If a three-year-old is mostly unintelligible to strangers, professional help can make a big difference in their ability to communicate effectively.

4. Your Child Stutters or Repeats Sounds

Stuttering involves a disruption in the flow of speech, often including repeating sounds, words, or phrases. If you notice your child frequently repeating sounds or getting stuck on words, a speech therapist can help. They can provide strategies and exercises to improve fluency and help your child communicate more smoothly and with less frustration.

5. They Struggle with Social Skills

Communication isn't just about speaking; it's also about understanding and interacting with others. If your child has difficulty with social skills, such as knowing how to take turns in a conversation, making eye contact, or understanding social cues, they might benefit from a speech therapy service in San Jose. Therapists can work on these skills, which are crucial for building relationships and navigating social situations.

6. They Have Trouble Following Instructions

If your child has difficulty following simple directions or seems to misunderstand what you're saying, they may have a receptive language disorder. This means they struggle to comprehend language, even if they can speak. A speech therapist can help with language comprehension, making it easier for your child to understand and respond to the world around them.

7. They Have Swallowing or Feeding Issues

Some children have difficulties with eating or swallowing, which can also be a sign of an oral motor or communication disorder. A speech therapist can assess the underlying cause of these issues and provide exercises and techniques to improve muscle function and safety during meal times.

A Person-Centered Approach to Care

At Care Must Skilled Home Health, we offer a person-centered approach to care, and that includes a dedicated speech therapy service in San Jose for children. We understand that every child has special needs, and our services are tailored to them. Our professional team is committed to being your shoulder to lean on and providing honest advice during what can feel like a fragile period. We believe in compassionate, competent, and cost-effective care that helps your child achieve their highest potential.

If you recognize any of these signs, seeking a professional evaluation is a positive step. Early intervention can significantly improve a child’s long-term communication skills, social abilities, and overall confidence. At Care Must, we are dedicated to providing the expert support your family needs to thrive.