Most children will learn to speak properly as they get older, but there are certain things to look for that will indicate that your child may need professional help.

If you find that:

• At 2 to 2-1/2 years of age, you can't understand half of what your child is saying



• Or, at 3 to 3-1/2 years of age, adults outside the home can't understand most of what your child says, or your child's speech sounds are unusual - for example, he says, "I kone sare" for "I don't care"



• Or, if you think your child's speech sounds too young

If you notice these signs, don't ignore them - they could mean your child has a speech or hearing problem. You should consult your child's physician about a referral to an audiologist or a speech and language therapist or pathologist for an evaluation. For more information, call the Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists at 1-800-259-8519.