Do I need an SLP? -

How Do I Know If My Child May Need Speech Therapy?

Understanding the signs and knowing when to seek support can make all the difference. If you have concerns about your child’s communication, we’re here to guide you and help you take the next step with confidence.

Common Signs Your Child May Benefit From Speech Therapy

Speech and communication challenges can show up in many ways. If your child is difficult to understand or struggles to express themselves, early support can help strengthen their skills, confidence, and ability to connect with others.

Speech Sound Difficulties

Trouble pronouncing words clearly, leaving out sounds, or being difficult to understand compared to others their age.

Fluency Challenges

Stuttering, repeating sounds or words, or interruptions in the natural flow of speech.

Understanding Language

Difficulty following directions, answering questions, or understanding what others are saying— especially with longer or more complex language.

Expressing Thoughts & Ideas

Trouble forming sentences, finding the right words, or clearly expressing needs, thoughts, and ideas

Social Communication Skills

Challenges using language in social situations, such as starting conversations, maintaining eye contact, or responding appropriately.

Impact on Learning & Communication

Difficulty participating in classroom discussions, following lessons, or expressing knowledge in academic settings.

Still Unsure? Let’s Take a Look Together

Not sure if speech therapy is the right next step? You’re not alone. These simple questions can help you tune into what you’re noticing and decide if a little extra support could be helpful.

• Does my child speak less than other children their age?

• Is my child difficult to understand?

• Does my child get frustrated when trying to communicate?

• Does my child have trouble following simple directions?

• Are my child’s sentences shorter or less developed than expected?

• Does my child avoid speaking or interacting with others?

If you’re noticing one or more of these, it may be a good time to take the next step. We’re here to help you make sense of what you’re seeing and guide you in the right direction.

At Chitter Chatter we understand it may be difficult to tell whether speech and language concerns are simply developmental differences or signs that additional support may help.

Our $25 Speech & Language Screening is designed to give parents a professional first look in a warm, supportive environment.

After the Screening, You’ll Receive:

• Professional feedback from a speech-language professional

• Recommendations for next steps

• Guidance on whether or not speech and language therapy may be needed for your child

“Screenings do not diagnose speech or language disorders and are not a substitute for a comprehensive evaluation. If a full evaluation is recommended, your screening observations will help guide the process.”

What to Expect During an Evaluation

Our evaluation process is designed to give you a clear understanding of your child’s communication strengths and areas of need—so you can feel confident about the next steps.

Initial Case History

We begin with a brief conversation to learn more about your child, including medical, developmental, educational, and family background. This helps us understand the full picture before testing begins

Personalized Assessment

Your child will participate in carefully selected, individualized assessments that target specific areas of concern, such as speech sounds, fluency, voice, and/or language skills.

Results & Recommendations

Following the evaluation, your Speech-Language Pathologist will interpret the results and provide a detailed report outlining findings, recommendations, and next steps.

A Clear Path Forward

Whether therapy is recommended or not, our goal is to give you clarity, confidence, and guidance so you know exactly how to best support your child.