You're not overreacting. And you're not alone. Many parents feel exactly what you're feeling right now.
"Maybe they're just a late bloomer." "Boys talk later." You've heard it all. But something in your gut says it's time to get answers.
If you've been told to "wait and see," we want you to know: seeking help is never the wrong choice. There's no downside to getting an evaluation. Either you'll get peace of mind, or you'll get your child started on support early, when it matters most.
You're not being paranoid. You're being a good parent.
Your toddler isn't saying as many words as other kids their age. Maybe they're not talking at all yet, or they're using just a handful of words when their peers are already combining words into sentences.
You've been told "boys talk later" or "Einstein didn't talk until he was three" but deep down, you know your child best. And your concern is valid.
The good news? Early help works. Children who receive speech therapy between ages 18-36 months often catch up quickly. The window for language development is wide open during these years, and we're here to help your child make the most of it.
The facts you need to feel confident in your decision
Our speech-language pathologists hold the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC-SLP), the gold standard in our field.
Specific training and experience working with toddlers ages 18 months to 3 years during critical language windows.
We use research-backed approaches proven effective for late talkers, not guesswork or one-size-fits-all programs.
We teach you strategies to support your child at home. You become part of the team, because the real progress happens between sessions.
Signs parents often notice in late talkers
No first words by 18 months or very few words by age 2
Fewer than 50 words by 24 months when peers have hundreds
Not putting two words together by age 2 ("more milk," "go car")
Doesn't respond to simple instructions like "come here" or "get your shoes"
Tantrums or meltdowns when they can't express their needs
Didn't babble much as a baby, or babbling sounds very limited
Relies heavily on pointing, pulling, or gesturing rather than words
Doesn't try to copy words or sounds that you model
If you recognized your child in any of these, it's worth having a conversation. An evaluation can give you clarity, whether that means reassurance or an action plan.
There's no harm in asking questions. Get a free consultation with our early intervention specialists, no strings attached.
Gentle, play-based support designed for toddlers
We use your child's favorite toys and activities to naturally encourage word production. Therapy doesn't feel like work to your child. It feels like play.
You'll learn strategies to model language and create rich language opportunities at home. You're your child's best teacher, and we'll show you how.
Systematic introduction of new words in functional, meaningful contexts your child encounters daily, such as food, toys, family members, and daily routines.
Techniques to help your child move from single words to two-word combinations ("more cookie") and beyond, building sentence structure step by step.
Your child's journey from evaluation to talking
Every child is different. Some late talkers have an explosion of language within weeks. Others need more time and support. What matters most is starting early and staying consistent.
We accept most major insurance providers, including coverage for early intervention
Special note for parents of children ages 0-3: You may qualify for services at no cost through North Bay Regional Center's Early Start program.
Verify My InsuranceOther speech and language support we provide
You've made it this far. That tells us you care deeply about your child's development. We're here to listen, answer your questions, and help you figure out the next right step, whatever that looks like for your family.
Prefer to talk now?
(707) 366-5246