Each State has an Early Childhood Intervention program.
Up until 3 years old, any services are free.
They do an overall developmental evaluation. It is free.
If they find that he is speech delayed or whatever, you can choose or not, to have them help you/him.
It is your, choice.
My son, from 19 months old, had speech therapy via this service. He was fine and even advanced in several areas for his age, but was speech delayed. So I chose to have their services. They came to my house. It was fun and helpful and my son LOVED it. It is play, oriented. But with a Speech Therapist. My son and I, learned a ton... about speech development.
I did not have to get referred by a Pediatrician. I just called them myself.
It is free. So that is why, I figured I would call them, for my son.
It is up to you.
What does your Pediatrician say?
Your son must have had his 15 month check up?
Or there will be one at 18 months old, too.
Sure, all kids develop talking differently.
My daughter talked early.
My son was not yet talking much. That is why I called my local organization about it. And it was free.
Speech delays have nothing to do with intelligence or not or whatever.
But the evaluator also will rule out other issues, per speech. And see, if your son is needing help or not. From a professional standpoint. Not just guessing.
My son LOVED his speech therapy. It is not intimidating at all. They make it fun, for the child and parent.
*In California, the program is called "Early Start." (I think). Here is the link:
http://www.php.com/services/early-intervention-infants-to...