selective mutism

Language Delay or Selective Mutism?

Katie BlauthBehavior, Child Development, Expected Behavior by Age

This question comes up very often when a child seems to understand everything you tell her, yet she isn’t talking.  Many parents report that they feel that their child is able to talk, but is refusing to do so. Selective Mutism Characteristics of selective mutism are described by the American Speech-Language Hearing Association as: consistent failure to speak in specific …

sensory issues or temperament

Child Behaviors: Are They Due to Sensory Issues or Temperament?

CME WebsitesBehavior, Child Development, Expected Behavior by Age

As a mother, therapist, friend, and neighbor, I hear people say all the time, “Oh he/she is the best baby…he/she never cries, fusses, puts anything in his/her mouth, and can sleep through a train driving through our house.” Or I may hear the opposite, “He/she will only sleep if it is totally silent, cries all the time, and never seems …

late talking toddlers

Helpful Strategies for Apraxia of Speech or Late Talking Toddlers

Rinda GraybillBehavior, Child Development, Expected Behavior by Age

In our previous article, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, we discussed some characteristics of suspected apraxia of speech in toddlers.  To redefine childhood apraxia of speech (CAS), it is a motor speech disorder.  A child who has CAS will have difficulty planning motor movements for speech production.  So, what does this mean?  A child with CAS will often know what they …

normal child attention span

Q&A: What is a Normal Attention Span?

CME WebsitesBehavior, Expected Behavior by Age

I find everyone is quick to diagnose children with ADHD.  I am a second grade teacher. Is there a “normal rule of thumb” for attention span? How long should a typical 7-8 year old be able to concentrate? I find teachers are lengthy in their lessons and explanations. How long should the child be expected to pay attention? Sometimes I …