What is a late talker?

A late talker is a child between 18-30 months who understands language well but uses fewer than 50 words or no two-word combinations by age 2. Approximately 10-20% of two-year-olds meet this criteria according to ASHA.

Will my late talker catch up without therapy?

Some late talkers do catch up on their own, but research shows 50-70% improve faster with early intervention. Without support, some children develop persistent language difficulties that can affect reading and academic performance.

When should I seek a speech evaluation?

If your child is 18 months or older and showing signs of late talking, a speech-language evaluation is recommended. Early intervention before age 3 produces the best outcomes.

What insurance do you accept?

We accept Sutter HMO, Kaiser, Cigna, Blue Shield PPO, Western Health Advantage, and North Bay Regional Center for children ages 0-3.

How long does therapy for late talkers typically take?

Duration varies by child. Some late talkers make significant progress in 3-6 months, while others benefit from longer courses of treatment. We develop individualized plans and provide regular progress reports.

Late Talker Speech Therapy in Dixon, CA

Signs Your Child May Be a Late Talker

If you notice any of the following, a speech-language evaluation can provide clarity and peace of mind.

Fewer Than 50 Words by Age 2

Most two-year-olds use at least 50 words. A vocabulary significantly below this benchmark warrants evaluation.

No Word Combinations

By 24 months, children typically combine two words (“more milk,” “daddy go”). Absence of combinations is a key indicator.

Gestures Instead of Words

Relying on pointing, pulling your hand, or becoming frustrated rather than using words to communicate.

Understands but Does Not Speak

Following directions and demonstrating comprehension, but spoken vocabulary remains very limited.

What Therapy Involves

Speech therapy for late talkers is play-based and family-centered, building language through activities your child enjoys.

Comprehensive speech-language evaluation to establish current abilities
Individualized treatment plan with measurable goals
Play-based sessions using evidence-based techniques (focused stimulation, milieu teaching)
Parent coaching to extend strategies into daily routines
Regular progress reports with objective data

What Families Say

“Our son was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 4. The first services we received was speech therapy as he was unable to express himself. We were lucky enough to have been paired with Stacey. Our son has been in speech therapy for almost a year now and has improved so much. He is always excited to go see Mrs. Stacey. We are forever grateful.”

— Lopez Family, Dixon, CA

“STC helped me ease my daughter into attending sessions independently instead of needing me to accompany her to every session, which has given her more confidence. My daughter looks forward to her therapy every week. We’ve experienced other speech therapy service providers and STC is by far our favorite. It feels like a second home.”

— Ann & Rose, Vacaville, CA

Take the First Step

Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your child’s speech development.

Free Consultation

Or call (707) 366-5246