When to get help
Children learn to talk at different speeds. Lots of sound mistakes are a normal part of growing up. But if something worries you, it's worth asking.
Talk to someone if
- You're worried. You know your child best, and it's always OK to ask.
- People who know your child find them hard to understand.
- Your child gets upset or gives up when people don't understand them.
- Your child stops using words or sounds they used to say.
- Your child stutters (gets stuck on sounds or words) and it worries you or them.
- Your child seems to understand much less than other children their age.
Who to talk to in New Zealand
- Your GP or Plunket nurse (for under-fives) can talk it through with you and help you find support.
- Your early childhood centre or school can ask the Ministry of Education's learning support team for help.
- A private speech-language therapist. The New Zealand Speech-language Therapists' Association has a list of therapists.
While you wait
You can keep practising at home. Sally Says is practice, not therapy, so it can't check your child's speech. But short, fun practice together is a good way to keep talking.
This page is general information, not advice about your child. More guides