Learn about language and speech development, potential etiologies of speech delay, and early interventions for speech delay.

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This episode was written by pediatricians Lidia Park and Tammy Yau as well as UCD pediatrics resident Elaine Ho, with content support from Anisha Srinivasan (UCD child development and behavioral pediatrician). Pediatricians Tammy and Lidia take full responsibility for any errors or misinformation. 

Key Points

• CDC and AAP have created updated 2022 developmental guidelines that includes changes in speech and language milestones for childrens and have added guidelines forage ages 15 months and 30 months 
• Differential for speech delay is broad and includes hearing loss, global developmental delay, autism, and isolated language disorders 
• Interventions include speech therapy services and exercises at home
• Pediatricians play critical role in surveillance, evaluation, and management of speech delays to allow for earlier intervention and improved outcomes 

Sources  

• Jennifer M. Zubler, Lisa D. Wiggins, Michelle M. Macias, Toni M. Whitaker, Judith S. Shaw, Jane K. Squires, Julie A. Pajek, Rebecca B. Wolf, Karnesha S. Slaughter, Amber S. Broughton, Krysta L. Gerndt, Bethany J. Mlodoch, Paul H. Lipkin; Evidence-Informed Milestones for Developmental Surveillance Tools. Pediatrics March 2022; 149 (3): e2021052138. 10.1542/peds.2021-052138
• Maris Rosenberg, MD, Nancy Tarshis, MA, MS, 2016. "Speech and Language Concerns (Chapter 195)", American Academy of Pediatrics Textbook of Pediatric Care, Thomas K. McInerny, MD, FAAP, Henry M. Adam, MD, FAAP, Deborah E. Campbell, MD, FAAP, Thomas G. DeWitt, MD, FAAP, Jane Meschan Foy, MD, FAAP, Deepak M. Kamat, MD, PhD, FAAP, Rebecca Baum, MD, FAAP, Kelly J. Kelleher, MD, MPH, FAAP
• Heidi M. Feldman; Evaluation and Management of Language and Speech Disorders in Preschool Children. Pediatr Rev April 2005; 26 (4): 131–142. https://doi.org/10.1542/pir.26-4-131
• Henry Adam; Speech and Language Concerns. Quick References 2022; 10.1542/aap.ppcqr.396455
• ASHA Communication Milestones and Age Ranges https://www.asha.org/public/developmental-milestones/communication-milestones/ 

Audio Clips: From Youtube Channel “Pathways”

The 4 to 6 Month Baby Communication Milestones to Look For: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0FGHFrMRXI

10-12 month Old Communication Milestones https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYHpjZC2qCA

19-24 Month Communication Milestones: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2C--4gay2c