Speech delay in 12 month old

[YellowEllis]

I made a few threads a while back worried about autism in my infant. He had been referred to speech and language therapy and we have now had that appointment.

They have confirmed what the health visitor said in terms of a delay, but didn't comment on autism.

My 12 month old was observed playing and the main concerns was lack of understanding, lack of imitation and frustration resulting in crying/angrily waving his arms up and down/arching his back.

We've started a course of therapy over Zoom. I just feel like such a bloody failure. He's barely turned one and he's already behind! Has anyone had similar and started therapy at this age? Did it end up ok?

12 months seems quite early to be worrying so much. I expect that it's too early to diagnose autism.
Btw, if your child does have autism this is not a failure of yours. Why would you think it is your fault?

Speech delays are incredibly common and are often overcome without other SEN being diagnosed. I think you are taking it far too personally. Just focus on getting the help you are offered, and be patient.

Speech delays are common. We scored 0 on the 1 year check and only had 10 words/noises at 2 years, still waiting to see SALT many months on.

I know it's easy to see it as your own failing but it's not - they develop at different rates and you're getting early support so that will help.

My dd aged 2 didn’t speak. Slow to walk & smiled very late. She was sent to speech therapy but not a lot of support there. She then had selective mutism but changed when she started her nursery. She’s now a very bright 13 year old & I can’t keep her quiet. 12 months is very young to be overly concerned.