Speech & Language: February Skills to Watch for Younger Learners

By: Dr. Gabrielle Baker, President & Advocate

February is a helpful checkpoint for speech and language development in younger learners. By this point in the school year, routines are established and expectations are clearer, which makes it easier to notice whether a child is developing skills as expected or continuing to struggle. Paying attention to specific speech and language skills can help parents identify concerns early and advocate for support if needed.

Understanding the difference between speech and language

Speech refers to how sounds are produced and how clearly a child speaks. Language refers to how a child understands and uses words to communicate. A child may have difficulty with one or both, and challenges can look different at home than they do at school.

Skills to watch in expressive language

Expressive language involves how a child uses words, sentences, and grammar to communicate. In younger learners, concerns may include limited vocabulary, short or incomplete sentences, difficulty answering questions, or frustration when trying to explain ideas. Some children may rely heavily on gestures or repeat phrases instead of generating their own language.

Skills to watch in receptive language

Receptive language refers to understanding spoken language. Red flags may include difficulty following multi step directions, needing frequent repetition, misunderstanding questions, or appearing inattentive when language demands increase. These challenges are often mistaken for behavior or attention issues.

Speech sound development and intelligibility

By this point in the year, most younger learners should be understood by familiar adults most of the time. Ongoing difficulty producing sounds, frequent sound substitutions, or speech that is hard to understand may indicate a need for further evaluation. It is also important to watch for frustration related to being misunderstood.

Social communication and pragmatics

Speech and language development also includes how a child uses language socially. Skills to watch include taking turns in conversation, staying on topic, repairing communication breakdowns, and using appropriate volume and tone. Difficulty in these areas may affect peer relationships and classroom participation.

Impact on learning and behavior

Speech and language challenges often show up in academic and behavioral ways. Difficulty with language can affect early literacy, following classroom routines, and emotional regulation. If a child is melting down, avoiding tasks, or withdrawing socially, language demands may be part of the issue.

When to consider asking for support

If concerns have been present for several months and are affecting learning or participation, it may be appropriate to request a speech and language evaluation. Parents do not need to wait for a child to fail before asking for help. Early support can prevent frustration and build stronger communication skills.

Final thoughts

February is not too early and not too late to take a closer look at speech and language development. Noticing patterns now allows families to take proactive steps and work with schools to ensure younger learners have the communication support they need to succeed.