Early Signs Your Toddler May Benefit from Speech Therapy for Kids

By Tiny Sprouts Therapy Speech Language Pathology, Inc. l Where We Grow & Play

Pediatric Speech Therapy in Los Angeles & Long Beach

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As a parent, it's natural to wonder whether your child's communication is developing typically, especially when it seems like other children are hitting milestones faster. While every child develops on their own timeline, there are some signs that may suggest your toddler could benefit from speech therapy. Early support can make a meaningful difference, and knowing what to look for is the first step.

At our practice in Long Beach, we specialize in pediatric speech therapy that affirms all forms of communication. If you're concerned or simply curious, you're not alone—and you're in the right place.

What’s “Typical” Speech Development Anyway?

Children develop communication skills at different rates, but general developmental guidelines can be helpful.

• By 18 months, many toddlers are saying around 10–20 words.

• By 2 years, they may have 50 words and start combining two words like “more juice” or “mama go.”

That said, some children are late bloomers, while others may need support in building their communication foundations. And sometimes, signs of a speech delay can look different depending on your child’s unique profile.

Signs Your Toddler May Benefit From Speech Therapy

Here are some common signs that might indicate your toddler could benefit from working with a speech-language pathologist:

1. Limited Use of Words

• By age 2, your child has fewer than 50 words or isn’t combining words.

• Your child may use mostly gestures or sounds to communicate.

  
  

2. Unclear Speech

• You have trouble understanding your toddler most of the time.

• Others (like grandparents or caregivers) can’t understand your child’s words at all.

  
  

3. Frustration Around Communication

• Your child often seems upset when trying to express themselves.

• Tantrums may happen frequently due to communication breakdowns.

  
  

4. Not Responding to Name or Directions

• Your toddler doesn't respond when you call their name.

• They struggle to follow simple directions like “get your shoes” or “give me the ball.”

  
  

5. Echolalia or Repeating Without Using Own Words

• Your child repeats phrases from shows, songs, or questions you ask, but doesn't use those words to communicate their own ideas.

• This may be a sign of Gestalt Language Processing, a valid and natural way of learning language that some kids use.

  
  

6. Lack of Social Engagement

• Your child doesn’t make eye contact, point, or share interests with others.

• They may prefer playing alone and have difficulty joining in with others.

  
  

7. You Have a Gut Feeling Something’s Off

• You’ve brought up concerns to your pediatrician or others—but they’ve told you to “wait and see.”

• Your instincts matter. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to seek support.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Early intervention doesn't mean labeling or fixing your child. It means giving them the tools to connect with others in their own way.

Research shows that children who receive support early are more likely to develop strong communication skills and confidence (Zwaigenbaum et al., 2015). Early support can also reduce frustration and create more joyful interactions for your family.

Plus, therapy at this age is play-based, family-centered, and collaborative. It’s about empowering you as a caregiver, not just working with your child.

Final Thoughts on Supporting Growth with Speech Therapy for Kids

If you’re noticing some of these signs in your toddler, it doesn’t mean something is “wrong.” It means they may benefit from some extra support in learning to express their needs, ideas, and personality.

At Tiny Sprouts Therapy, we offer speech therapy for kids near you in Long Beach and Los Angeles that is relationship-based, play-focused, and grounded in neurodiversity-affirming principles. We see communication in all its forms as valid—and we’re here to support you and your child every step of the way.

Curious if speech therapy might be right for your child? Reach out. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and support your family’s unique journey.