What are the factors that put my child at risk for speech and/or language difficulties?
The following are some factors that may increase the likelihood that your child will have communication difficulties: • A family history of speech, language and/or learning difficulties • A history of multiple ear infections • Low birth weight • Premature birth (below 37 weeks) • Exposure to drugs or alcohol in the womb • Delayed milestones in other areas (e.g. late to walk) development • Anoxia (i.e. lack of oxygen) at birth • The presence of other conditions (i.e. Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, etc.) • Speaks loudly and frequently asks others to repeat what they have said If your child has any of these risk factors, or if you have concerns about your child’s speech and language development, you may want to contact a speech-language pathologist.
