Language Delays vs. Speech Delays: Knowing the Difference
Understanding how children communicate can be challenging, especially when you begin to notice that your child’s development doesn’t follow the same pace as their peers. Many parents wonder whether their child is experiencing a speech delay, a language delay, or both—which are not the same thing. Knowing the difference is an important first step in getting your child the support they need. At The Therapy Tree, where we embrace a play-based “play, learn, grow” philosophy, we help families navigate these concerns with clarity and compassion.
What Is a Speech Delay?
A speech delay refers to challenges with how a child produces sounds. This may include difficulty pronouncing certain letters, forming clear words, or coordinating the muscles needed for speech. Children with speech delays often know exactly what they want to say, but their mouth, tongue, or jaw are not yet able to produce those sounds correctly.
A speech delay may include:
- Sound substitutions or distortions
- Difficulty putting sounds together
- Trouble being understood by unfamiliar listeners
- Motor-planning challenges such as childhood apraxia of speech
- Weak oral–motor skills that affect clarity
At The Therapy Tree, these challenges are supported through tailored speech therapy that helps children strengthen sound production, improve articulation, and build confidence in communication.
What Is a Language Delay?
A language delay is different. It refers to challenges with what a child understands and how they use words to communicate ideas. Children with language delays may have trouble processing information, forming sentences, understanding directions, or expressing what they’re thinking.
A language delay may include difficulties with:
- Understanding spoken or written language
- Vocabulary development
- Combining words into phrases or sentences
- Using grammar or syntax
- Telling stories or sharing ideas
Language therapy at The Therapy Tree focuses on building comprehension, expressive skills, vocabulary, and the foundational skills needed for reading, writing, and lifelong communication.
Key Differences
The simplest way to understand the difference is this:
Speech is the sound of communication. Language is the meaning of communication.
A child may have one without the other. For example, a child might speak clearly but use very few words (language delay), or they might have a strong vocabulary but struggle to pronounce sounds (speech delay). Some children experience both, which is why an accurate evaluation is essential.
At The Therapy Tree, we work with children as young as infancy through age 21, ensuring every child receives an individualized plan that supports their unique path of growth.
When to Seek an Evaluation
Early support is always beneficial. If you notice that your child is not meeting communication milestones, has difficulty expressing themselves, is hard to understand, or seems frustrated when trying to communicate, a professional evaluation can provide clarity.
We offer in-person evaluations at our Douglas and Hazlehurst clinics. After the assessment, we work with your family to create a customized therapy plan that fits your child’s needs and naturally integrates into daily routines at home, school, and in the community.
For families with toddlers, our site also provides access to the free M-CHAT-R screening tool, which can help identify early signs of autism and guide your next steps.
Partnering With Families for Better Outcomes
Therapy is most effective when parents, caregivers, and even siblings help reinforce skills outside of the clinic. That’s why The Therapy Tree includes family coaching and training as part of every therapy journey. Our approach ensures that communication goals become part of your child’s everyday environment, creating consistent, meaningful progress.
The Therapy Tree
If you’re unsure whether your child is experiencing a speech delay, a language delay, or both, we’re here to help. Contact The Therapy Tree to schedule an evaluation or request a free consultation. Together, we’ll support your child’s ability to play, learn, and grow with confidence.