ESL Web Directory

Free child speech / language development information (FAQs, articles, tips) by speech-language pathologist, parent stories & learning activities.

In my experience when a parent is worried about a speech delay there is usually a problem that warrants attention. One mother recently wrote asking me about a child who did not speak any words except "Ma Ma" at age two and her pediatrician said, "Don't worry about it."

Speech and language therapists are specialists in communication disorders. The ability to communicate is central to all that we do- to who we are, how we learn and how we relate to each other at home, at school and at work. Thousands of people fail to access education, social, economic and career opportunities due to communication difficulties.

About 5-10% of children have a developmental disability that causes a delay in their speech and language development. It is important to keep in mind that language development involves more than just speech, it also includes other forms or communication, such as sign language, writing, and visual skills (pointing, etc.).

Our site has been developed to provide speech therapy resources for parents and professionals supporting children with speech and learning difficulties for example dyspraxia, apraxia and autism. Other areas of articulation, literacy and late speaking are also covered together with links and reviews for other websites specialising in these areas.

This website was created to help parents, caregivers, teachers, friends, therapists, and relatives of language/speech delayed children. We cover a variety of topics, with "talking tips" for adults; a speech forum to communicate with a speech-language and/or hearing expert, or peers; links to many other helpful sites, a sign language section with multiple common signs, and a "books/products" section if you choose to obtain further information/helpful products.