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“Between 3% and 16% of children in the United States experience a speech or language disorder at some point during childhood.”
— National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)
Communication is the foundation for learning, relationships, and emotional well-being
Communication is the foundation for learning, relationships, and emotional well-being
When challenges go unnoticed or unsupported, they can affect far more than speech alone.
Here’s why early attention matters:
Learning and academics: Speech and language skills are directly tied to reading, writing, comprehension, and following directions. Difficulties can impact classroom success across all subjects.
Social connections: Communication challenges can make it harder for children to express themselves, understand others, and build friendships—sometimes leading to isolation or frustration.
Behavior and emotional regulation: When children can’t communicate their needs or feelings effectively, it may show up as anxiety, withdrawal, or challenging behaviors.
Hidden indicators: Speech and language differences can be an early sign of broader needs, such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, or executive functioning challenges.
Long-term outcomes: Early identification and support significantly improve outcomes. Without intervention, challenges can persist and become harder to remediate over time.
What is a speech and language evaluation?
What is a speech and language evaluation?
It’s an assessment that helps identify how your child:
Understands language
Uses words and sentences
Pronounces sounds
Communicates with others
The goal is to see what your child is doing well and where they may need support.
What does a speech language evaluation look at?
What does a speech language evaluation look at?
A speech-language pathologist (SLP) may check your child’s skills in areas such as:
Speech sounds
(Are certain sounds hard to say?)Understanding directions and questions
(Can they follow instructions or answer simple questions?)Expressive language
(Can they use words and sentences to share ideas?)Vocabulary
(Do they know and use age-appropriate words?)Social communication
(Do they take turns, make eye contact, and use gestures?)Fluency
(Do they stutter or get stuck on words?)Voice
(Is their voice clear and healthy?)
The good news: With the right evaluation and support, children can build strong communication skills that open doors to learning, confidence, and connection. Identifying needs early gives families a clear path forward—and helps children thrive in school and beyond.
Wondering if your child’s speech or language development is on track?
Speech and language concerns can include a wide range of areas, from articulation and stuttering to understanding and using language (both expressive and receptive). Learn how a comprehensive speech and language evaluation can provide clarity and next steps.
How is PLACE different?
How is PLACE different?
Because we understand how foundational language is to so many skills, we are proud to partner with a Speech-Language Pathologist who holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist.
That's why we partner with Wave of Words for all of our Speech Language needs.
As a PLACE partner, Sydney from Wave of Words is ready not only to provide your child with a comprehensive evaluation but she is ready to serve your child and family with therapy services that are tailored to your child's individual needs. For more information please check out her website at Wave of Words.
Have more questions about your child's communication?
We are ready and waiting to help your child on their path to success!
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