Introduction
The brain of a child doubles in size by the first year and it is in the most formative stage during the first three years of life. In fact, almost 90% of brain growth happens by the age of five years.
The science behind it!
The period between birth and five years of age is vital in building strong language skills; during this age period, language learning happens by interacting with adults and by receiving feedback from adults. However, a child who communicates less receives less "stimulation and essential feedback," which is primary to the language learning process. Parents usually consider a "WAIT & SEE" approach when their child communicates less. But they usually don't realize that this leads to less "essential feedback" resulting in further language delay in their child. Most importantly, the child loses the "Golden Time Period" of brain development related to language skills.
Recommendation
Interventions are more effective when provided earlier rather than later. So, if a child is experiencing a language delay compared to the children of their age group, we recommend the parents to visit a qualified and licensed speech therapist and start the intervention at the earliest for better outcomes.
As well said by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) that
" Getting Help Earlier is Better Than Waiting," let's not wait, instead let's take action now!