SALT for a 21mo - what to expect?

[olivo]

I have finally taken the plunge and asked for DD2 to be referred for a hearing test as she has very few words, and with me having a hearing loss myself, and DD1 having SALT for 1 1/2 yrs, I am erring on the side of caution. The HV said she will also refer to SALT - what can I expect at an appt for one so young?

She communicates well, pointing, head nodding and shaking, going to get what she wants, and saying the first consonant of quite a few words, but not quite sure how they can help her develop her speech.

[mistressploppy]

I don't expect the SLT will see her until she's (maybe a lot) older. The most urgent thing is the hearing test. If she's communicating then there is little to be done speech-wise at the moment, I should think

[Chundle]

Hi olivo my dd2 is 21 months and has been referred for salt as well they have said they will see her even at this young age. My dd can say about 12 words but doesn't say them correctly ie she says 'g' for book and instead of saying drink she will make a slurping noise! There is a wAitin list in our area so won't get seen til august so we are having a couple of private salt sessions, first one next week. My dd doesn't really nod or shake her head but does say 'no', she does point but her joint attention isn't great

[olivo]

thanks mistress ploppy - do I assume it is to 'get her on the books' then for SALT? I suppose it has also made me feel better as I have had alot of pressure from people who comment on her lack of talking, including DH!

[mistressploppy]

Yes, do get her 'on the books'. I used to work as a SLT (but with adults, so by NO means an expert) and TBH we rarely saw children that young, especially if they were communicating ok/not frustrated or alienated because of the problem.

Things may be different now.

Does she seem to understand what you say? Will she follow instructions like 'go get your book' 'give the teddy to Daddy'? ('Put your shoes on' doesn't count as you always do that when getting ready to go out!)

[ToysRLuv]

My DS is 20 months old and only has a couple of words, so am a bit worried, but then again he does plenty of animal and car noises, nods and gestures for "where is?", points constantly and understands most of what I say, taking instructions etc.. He is bilingual, which according to some sources could cause delay, but I think he might just be lazy. After all grunting and pointing works, doesn't it? Do you lot think I should worry more?

[ToysRLuv]

I have to add, he doesn't really use more than 2 words (one is the name of the neighbours' dog, so not very useful)..

[olivo]

lol at the dog's name!! DD's main word is 'more' so pretty useful at least! she does understand instructions,and also gestures for things like 'where' and changes the sound of her voice accordingly.

[mistressploppy]

I've always felt that if a child is sociable and interacting then not to worry if they have very few words up to and beyond 2yrs.

Nothing to be lost by getting input though, as long as you don't put any pressure on the DC (or any guilt/stress/worry on yourself )

[olivo]

I've given up trying to feel guilty, too tired ! I myself am not that worried, but DH feels happier that I have done this - also, with me having a hearing oss, the hearing test is quite importnat. She is a shy little thing, but apparently, at nursery, she chatters away with 'her crowd' - her best friend doesnt talk much either but they manage to communicate in their own little way!!