Answer from the “Ask an Expert” Column

This is one of the most common questions we receive from parents.

First and foremost, we want to say: if you have any concerns about your child’s development, don’t keep those worries to yourself.

By age three, most children are already using words and simple sentences to communicate. If your child speaks very little or hardly at all, this doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a serious problem. There can be various reasons for this, and a specialist can help you figure them out.

The sooner parents seek advice, the more opportunities there are to support their child’s development in a timely manner. Sometimes a few recommendations are enough, and other times a specialist may suggest a personalized program of activities.

Most importantly—don’t compare your child to others, and don’t put off seeking advice just because someone told you, “They’ll grow out of it.” Every child develops at their own pace, but it’s best to discuss any concerns with a specialist.