Speech Delay

A condition in which a child does not develop speech and language skills at the expected rate for their age. Speech delay can affect the production of sounds (articulation), the ability to form words and sentences (expressive language), or the understanding of language (receptive language). It may occur as an isolated condition or alongside other disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, or hearing loss. Children with speech delay often benefit from speech-language therapy and may use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems to support their communication needs while developing speech skills.