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My 4-Year-Old Son Has a Speech Delay, What to Do?

03 June, 2020
Q As-salamu `Alaikum,

With the blessings of Allah SWT, I am blessed with two boys. The elder one is 4 years old and the little one is 2 and a half years old. My elder one is delayed in speech for which we have seen speech therapist.

He knows all alphabets with words too. But the thing is he is engaged in himself more. He doesn't want to interact more with others, neither he plays so much with the little one.

During night time, when I say stories also the little one will take interest but he is busy with himself. He knows few animals name and keeps repeating them. He will not understand either I am telling any story.

If I will say his familiar words only then he will give attention only. He doesn't repeat my saying. The little one is more talkative Alhumdullilah. I am so concerned about the elder one. Please help me. Jazak Allah

Answer

In this counseling answer:

• Take him to his pediatrician for an evaluation. Write down a list of all your concerns and be ready to discuss them with the doctor.

• While it may be that your older son is just developing at a different rate and will catch up, or is withdrawn and more introverted, it is best to rule out any other factor that may be impeding his growth and development.


As-salamu alaykum,

Children grow and develop at different rates. It could be that your older son will have a developmental growth spurt later on, or it could be that he has a more introverted personality.

While you may think he is not attentive, learning or understanding, he may be absorbing the information, but not outwardly showing it for whatever reason.

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You did not mention whether or not this is a new phenomenon or you have had him evaluated by a pediatrician regarding your concerns.

A mother seeks advice on dealing with her son's speech delay. Check the counselor's advice.

If you have not yet done so, I would kindly recommend taking him to his pediatrician for an evaluation. Write down a list of all your concerns and be ready to discuss them with the doctor.

While it may be that your older son is just developing at a different rate and will catch up, or is withdrawn and more introverted, it is best to rule out any other factor that may be impeding his growth and development. Please do consult with his pediatrician insha’Allah.

You are in our prayers, please let us know how he is doing.

Salam,

***

Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general and purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees be held liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.

Read more:

https://aboutislam.net/counseling/ask-about-parenting/child-development/child-slow-talk/
About Aisha Mohammad
Aisha has a PhD in psychology, an MS in public health and a PsyD. Aisha worked as a Counselor/Psychologist for 12 years at Geneva B. Scruggs Community Health Care Center in New York. She has worked with clients with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, trauma, and OCD. She also facilitated support groups and provided specialized services for victims of domestic violence, HIV positive individuals, as well youth/teen issues. Aisha is certified in Mindfulness, Trauma Informed Care, Behavioral Management, Restorative Justice/ Healing Circles, Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Confidentiality & Security. Aisha is also a Certified Life Coach, and Relationship Workshop facilitator. Aisha has a part-time Life Coaching practice in which she integrates the educational concepts of stress reduction, mindfulness, introspection, empowerment, self love and acceptance and spirituality to create a holistic healing journey for clients. Aisha is also a part of several organizations that advocates for prisoner rights/reentry, social & food justice, as well as advocating for an end to oppression & racism. In her spare time, Aisha enjoys her family, photography, nature, martial arts classes, Islamic studies, volunteering/charity work, as well as working on her book and spoken word projects.