Speech Delays
Support for Communication Delays in Children in Halifax and across Nova Scotia
At Thrive Therapy we understand that every child develops at their own pace—but when speech and language milestones are delayed, early support from a qualified Speech-Language Pathologist can make a big difference.
Whether your child is just starting to talk or struggling to express themselves clearly, our team is here to help them build the foundation for strong, confident communication.
What Is a Communication Delay?
A communication delay means a child is developing speech and/or language skills more slowly than expected for their age.
There are two main areas affected:
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Speech: how clearly a child says sounds and words
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Language: how a child understands and uses words to express ideas
Some children may be delayed in one area, while others may have difficulties in both.
Signs of a Communication Delay
Your child may benefit from a speech-language evaluation if they:
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Are not using words by 18 months
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Use fewer words than other children their age
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Have trouble combining words into phrases or sentences
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Struggle to follow directions or understand questions
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Are difficult for others to understand
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Repeat sounds or words frequently (may also indicate a fluency concern)
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Get frustrated when trying to communicate
If you're concerned, trust your instincts—early support matters.
Possible Causes of Communication Delays
Every child is different, but communication delays may be linked to:
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Developmental language disorder (DLD)
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Hearing difficulties
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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
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Cognitive or neurological differences
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Environmental factors (e.g., limited exposure to language)
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Unknown causes (in many cases)
Our speech-language pathologists will work with you to understand the “why” and create a plan that works.
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How Speech Therapy Can Help
At Thrive Therapy we provide:
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Comprehensive speech and language assessments
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Play-based, child-led therapy sessions
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Parent coaching and strategies for home
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Support for speech sounds, vocabulary building, grammar, and more
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Collaboration with daycares, schools, and other professionals
Our goal is to help your child find their voice—and to support you along the way.
Serving Communities Across Nova Scotia
We proudly serve families in:
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Halifax
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Bedford
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Sackville
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Dartmouth
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Antigonish
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Truro
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And communities across Nova Scotia
Our services are available in-clinic, at home, in schools, and through virtual sessions, ensuring accessibility for all families.