Lack of understanding and speech delay

[tuesdayschild1]

My DS is 19 months old and I am concerned about his lack of understanding and speech. He doesn't seem to understand much at all and doesn't follow simple commands such as 'get me the book/car' or things along those lines. He will follow very basic requests such as come here, or come and have a cuddle, but that's about it.

He also isn't saying very much. He has about 3 or 4 animal sounds he makes, and a few approximations for nursery rhymes e.g. he says 'garg' for round and round the garden, whilst doing the actions. As well as mummum / da and 'dug' for the dog. He also pats the dogs and tries to say good boy. However if he wants something he will just point to it and make 'uh' noises or come over and tap me to get my attention, he won't ask for me or a drink or food. He does however babble constantly, using intonation and speech like structure.

I have spoken to the HV and she didn't really seem concerned, but the lack of understanding thats worrying me. Does this sound concerning? Is there anything I can do to help him? HV is going to review him again at 2, but that feels like such a long time away

I don't think it sounds terrible or anything. He's obviously not articulate yet but he does sound as though he's able to make his needs clear and has understanding.

"If he wants something he'll point" that's good. Pointing is good.

Babbling is great too and as you say, he can approximate some words. My own nephew wasn't understandable till he was over 3 years old. He was almost silent till then...just a couple of "wordish things"

In terms of helping him, I would say a LOT of reading him picture books with images and the word...and singing songs...and constant talking to him. As you do things, tell him what you're doing. Heap praise on him for the things he does say.

I don't think this is too concerning at this age, and a review at 2 years old seems sensible - he may well have made lots of progress in that time. I agree with HennyPenny about reading and talking to him a lot.

Has his hearing been checked? That he's not speaking much at that age is completely within the normal development, but not understanding simple commands would have me concerned as well.
Maybe it's nothing, he might simply be a little slower in that area, but it's worth having it checked out!

Thank you for the responses and reassurance.

He hasn't had his hearing tested since the usual checks when they are very small (all fine then). He has very very waxy ears, so I guess this could be effecting his hearing? I read your post earlier Smart, and did notice this afternoon that he didn't respond to the sound of a car approaching from behind until 2-3 seconds after I heard it - and he absolutely loves cars, usually making a gasp sound followed by a big smile and pointing as soon as he sees them. Would the HV or GP refer for a hearing test ?

Also thank you for the advice re reading etc. I make sure I read to him everyday, interestingly he moves his fingers along the text and babbles words. He also makes the animal sounds if he sees their picture.

I could probably do with explaining things to him a bit more though - he's an only child and I'm probably very guilty of just getting him a drink, or book, or whatever without naming it!!!

I'm sorry, I don't know where or how you can get his hearing check, as I don't live in the UK.
Hopefully someone else is able to help. If not, I'd just call somewhere and ask.