When Should I Be Concerned?

Written By The Speech & Language Center

As a parent, it’s completely normal to wonder if your child’s speech is on track.

When Should I Be Concerned About My Child’s Speech Sounds?

Understanding What’s Typical—And When to Seek Help

As a parent, it’s completely normal to wonder if your child’s speech is on track. Maybe they’re a late talker. Maybe they’re hard to understand. Or maybe you're just not sure what's expected at their age.

At The Speech & Language Center, we help families every day who are asking the same questions. Here’s what you need to know about speech sound development—and when it might be time to check in with a speech-language pathologist.

✅ What’s Typical for Speech Sound Development?

Children learn to say different sounds at different ages. While every child develops at their own pace, here are some general speech milestones:

  • By age 3

    • p, b, m, h, w

      • Understood ~75% of the time by familiar listeners

  • By age 4

    • t, d, k, g, f, y, n

      • Mostly understood by unfamiliar listeners

  • By age 5–6

    • l, v, s, z, sh, ch, j ,r

      • Speech sounds are more consistent and complete

  • By age 7-8

    • th

      • Most children master the trickiest sounds

🚩 Signs Your Child May Benefit from Speech Therapy

If you’re noticing any of the following, it may be time to schedule an evaluation:

  • You or others often ask your child to repeat themselves

  • Your child gets frustrated when trying to speak

  • They’re harder to understand than other kids their age

  • You notice sound errors that aren’t improving over time

  • Your child avoids talking or isn’t attempting to communicate verbally

💡 What Does Articulation Therapy Look Like?

Speech therapy is not just drills and flashcards! Our sessions are:

  • Play-based and engaging

  • Tailored to your child’s interests and needs

  • Focused on sound production, listening, and confidence

  • Designed to help your child carry over skills to everyday life

We’ll also teach you how to support your child at home with fun, functional strategies.

Download Our Free Speech Sound Milestones Checklist!

Want a quick reference guide to track your child’s speech sound development?
👉 [Click here to download our FREE checklist (PDF)]

This handy guide includes sound milestones by age and tips for supporting speech at home.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. We’re here to answer your questions and help your child speak clearly and confidently. Reach out today to schedule a free consultation or book an evaluation.

📍 Serving families in West Chester, PA and surrounding areas
📞 Call us at 610-246-5585
📧 Or message us here to get started

The Speech & Language Center
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