Not Walking or Talking

I wouldn't worry about anything. My 14 month old soon is just starting to take a few steps without holding on so your son should be getting ready to do that same. He walked holding on to things for over a month before he started to try a few steps on his own. He also doesn't say any words just babbles a lot. Remember, all kids develop differently and at their own pace. Most important is that he is always making progress toward a new goal. M.

Hi B.: I am a speech therapist, not working right now because I just had a baby. See what your pediatrician says and ask about getting a speech-language evaluation and a hearing screening (the hearing screening may have been done at birth). The doc will give you a referral for a SLP (and audiologist if needed) in your area. I won't say too much because you really have to SEE the child and how he communicates. But the most common scenario is that a child's receptive language (they understand; can point to something or pick up an object if you ask them to) develops faster than their expressive language (being able to use words) Also, each child has their own developmental time table. I have a friend that has twins that are almost 2 years and they are just NOW starting to say single words. Then on the other hand, my other friends kid started saying single words at around 8 months - so each child is different. So keep that in mind and good luck!

Dear B.
I am a huge proponent of utilizing your pediatrician to the max capacity. if you have a question, call and talk to the nurse........that is why they are there. if you are concerned..........ASK THE QUESTIONS and let the experts determine if there is a need for concern.

i have two separate friends whose sons did not walk until between 15 & 24 months. one child is completely "normal" and was just slow to walk b/c he was a heavier weight little guy. the other was normal weight and has significant developmental delays in speech, hearing & mobility.

not in any way to alarm you that your child is facing these challenges, but just to encourage you to consult your pediatrician.

good luck!

I am not sure when you sent this request, but I just wanted to tell you, my daughter Abbi, who is 3.5 now, did not walk until 16 months, and did not talk really at all until age 2. I took her to the dr. several times, very worried, but she was just slow in her development. Have you talked to your pediatrician? I would not panic just yet. How does his other cognitive development seem?

Don't worry!!! All Children are different. Many little boys do not talk until they are 2. Also, I know lots of kids who did not start walking until they were his age. If he is walking holding on to furniture - that is a good sign. When they wait to walk - they have better coordination and balance and fall less. Count your blessings!