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Childhood Speech Delays

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - It is definitely one of those moments parents don't forget…when their baby speaks for the first time. Language develops at a different pace depending on the child, but sometimes there are delays in speech that serve as warnings for other potential problems down the road.

As physicians, we look for certain things. Does a child say at least three words by fifteen months of age, can a child point to pictures of body parts when they are named by two years of age, can a child use original two word phrases by two and a half?

All of these are guidelines but I will tell you that over the years the biggest tip that has helped me recognize a delay or problem with development of speech is when a parent tells me there is an issue. In those cases it is clear that listening makes the biggest difference.

So if you are a parent and have concerns, make sure you talk with your doctor because early intervention can often help dramatically.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor

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