In Dubai’s vibrant, multilingual community, it’s common for parents to notice that some toddlers seem to pick up words faster than others. One child may be chatting away at two years old, while another quietly observes without saying much.
If you’ve found yourself thinking, “My child isn’t speaking yet — should I be worried?”, you’re not alone. Many parents in Dubai — especially in bilingual or multilingual homes — share the same concern.
The good news? Many “late talkers” catch up with time. But sometimes, delayed speech can signal that your child needs a bit of extra support. Understanding when to wait — and when to seek help — is key.
Let’s look at what every parent should know about speech development, early signs of delay, and when to consider speech therapy for children.
When Is a Child Considered a “Late Talker”?
Every child develops differently, but there are general milestones that can help you gauge if your little one is on track.
Here’s what most children typically do:
By 12 months: Babble (“mama,” “dada”), respond to their name, and use gestures like waving or pointing.
- By 18 months: Say around 10–20 clear words, imitate sounds, and try to name familiar people or objects.
- By 2 years: Use at least 50 words and start combining two words (“more juice,” “bye mama”).
- By 3 years: Speak in short sentences, follow simple instructions, and be understood by parents most of the time.
If your child isn’t using words by 18 months, or has fewer than 50 words by age 2, they might be considered a “late talker.”
This doesn’t automatically mean there’s a serious issue — but it does mean it’s worth keeping an eye on their progress or talking to a professional for reassurance.
Common Reasons for Delayed Speech
Living in Dubai’s multicultural environment means many children grow up exposed to two or more languages from an early age. This can influence how — and when — they start speaking.
Here are some common reasons a child might talk later than expected:
🗣 Bilingual or Multilingual Exposure
Children who hear multiple languages at home or nursery might take a little longer to sort out which words belong to which language. This is normal and usually temporary. Once they start speaking, they often catch up quickly and become fluent in both.
👂 Hearing Difficulties
If your child often has ear infections or doesn’t seem to respond to sounds or name calls, it’s worth checking their hearing. Even mild hearing loss can make it hard for children to pick up new words.
💭 Developmental or Environmental Factors
Some children are simply more cautious communicators — they prefer to listen before speaking. Others may experience speech delays related to oral motor skills, attention, or broader developmental differences.
Regardless of the cause, early assessment from a speech therapist in Dubai can help identify the reason and create a plan to support your child’s communication.
When to Seek Speech Therapy
Parents often wonder, “Should I wait a bit longer?”, “is he/she a late talker like me ?” or “Am I overreacting?”
While many late talkers catch up, there are certain signs that suggest professional input is needed. You should consider speech therapy for children, if your child:
- Isn’t using single words by 18 months
- Has fewer than 50 words by age 2
- Doesn’t combine words by 2½ years
- Seems frustrated when trying to communicate
- Doesn’t respond to simple instructions (“come here,” “give me the ball”)
- Isn’t imitating sounds or gestures
- Has unclear speech beyond age 3
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth getting an evaluation and if you live in Dubai it would be always best to get a consultation with a Speech therapist in Dubai. Early assessments are gentle, play-based, and designed to understand your child’s strengths and challenges in a relaxed setting.
How Early Intervention Helps
Early support makes a world of difference. The earlier a child receives help, the faster and easier it is to close communication gaps.
Here’s how early intervention in Dubai can benefit your child:
🧠 Boosts language learning: Speech therapy helps children process sounds, build vocabulary, and form sentences through fun, engaging activities.
- 💬 Reduces frustration: Learning how to express themselves clearly helps children feel more confident and less upset during play or conversation.
- 🤝 Improves social skills: As communication improves, so do relationships with peers and teachers — especially in Dubai’s social, multilingual classrooms.
- Empowers parents: Therapists guide families with practical techniques to support language growth at home.
Even a few weeks and months of consistent therapy can lead to remarkable progress — especially when started early.
Finding the Right Speech Therapist in Dubai
When choosing where to go for help, look for a licensed speech therapist who:
- Specializes in Paediatric speech therapy
- Understands bilingual and multicultural environments
- Uses play-based and family-centered approaches
- Provides clear guidance for home practice
- Has strong communication with parents and teachers
Conclusion: Don’t Wait and Worry
If your toddler isn’t talking as expected, remember — it’s not your fault, and you’re not alone. Many children in Dubai take their time to find their voice. What matters most is recognizing when a little extra support could help.
Early intervention is key to giving your child the best start possible in communication, learning, and confidence.
👉 If you’re concerned about your child’s speech progress, reach out to a certified speech therapist in Dubai for early guidance. Timely support can make a world of difference.
Final Note
Speech and language difficulties are common — and with early, expert intervention, children can make remarkable progress.
At SLTbyEarncey, I’m passionate about helping children find their voice and do provide personalized, play-based therapy tailored to your child’s unique needs.
👉 Book a consultation with SLTbyEarncey today and take the first step toward helping your child communicate with confidence.
📞 Call us at +971 56 596 3010 or visit us online at https://sltbyearncey.com/contact-us/
