When should you consult a speech therapist?

One of the most common questions we hear from parents is: 'Are we worrying too early?' The honest answer — earlier is almost always kinder. Speech therapy at two or three years old often looks like play, not lessons.

Milestones worth noticing

• By 12 months: babbling with varied sounds, responding to their name
• By 18 months: 10–20 recognisable words
• By 24 months: combining two words ('more milk'), 50+ words
• By 36 months: short sentences that strangers can mostly understand

Myths we hear often

"Boys just talk later." Sometimes true — but not a reason to wait. A screening takes an hour and gives you clarity either way.

Another common one: 'They'll grow out of it.' Some do. Many don't. And waiting means missing a window where the brain is uniquely open to language.