What is Delayed Language Development?

Language development has shown a correlation with specific changes in brain development. It is a process that begins at early childhood, around the age of 8 months and above. During this phase, children become more aware of their surroundings and sounds. They start to communicate, understand language, and express their emotions. As they grow older, they are able to retain more words, and so develop a larger vocabulary. However, the pace of learning and developing a language varies among children. Some children are able to talk in full sentences at 18 months, while some children may acquire this ability at a later age. Late-talker is the first indication of delayed language development, and possibly language impairment. Studies have indicated that genetics could be one of the factors accounting for the variation in early language acquisition, in addition to other factors, such as maternal education, birth risks and so on.

How It May Affect You

The process of language development duration varies from one child to another. Generally, girls develop language at a faster rate as compared to boys.

The process of developing language largely depends on the growth and maturation of a child's brain. Some children may experience a delay in their language development process, which can be attributed to genetic, biological or environmental factors.