Speech Delay (Neurological Cause)
Understanding the Brain’s Role in Language Development
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we support families concerned about their child’s delayed speech — especially when simple explanations don’t seem to fit.
While many speech delays are related to hearing, environment, or developmental pace, some are rooted in how the brain processes and produces language.
These neurological causes may need a different kind of evaluation — and a different kind of care.
Our Pediatric Neurology team helps clarify the cause, guide therapy, and reassure families — across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain.
What Is Neurologically-Based Speech Delay?
Neurological speech delays occur when brain development affects a child’s ability to understand or use language.
These may be caused by:
- Global developmental delays
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Childhood apraxia of speech (motor planning issue)
- Epileptic syndromes affecting language areas
- Cerebral palsy or early brain injury
- Genetic or metabolic disorders
Signs may include:
- No single words by 18 months or phrases by 2–3 years
- Loss of previously acquired speech
- Difficulty imitating sounds or gestures
- Poor response to name or verbal cues
- Slurred or unclear speech beyond toddler years
These delays often go beyond “late talking” — and deserve thorough evaluation.
When Should You Seek Help?
Consult a Pediatric Neurologist if your child:
- Has speech that is significantly delayed or regressing
- Isn’t using words or gestures to communicate by age 2
- Has other developmental concerns alongside speech delay
- Was born prematurely or experienced birth complications
- Has a known neurological condition and is not meeting language milestones
- Needs a medical evaluation to guide therapy or school planning
Speech is a window into brain development. If something feels off — it’s worth exploring.
How We Evaluate Neurological Speech Delays
Here’s how we assess and support children with complex language concerns:
- Developmental and Medical History: We review milestones, prenatal/birth history, and current communication level.
- Neurological Examination: This helps identify motor tone, coordination, or attention concerns that may impact speech.
- Hearing and Sensory Screening: We ensure hearing and sensory input are intact.
- Referral for Speech and Language Assessment: We coordinate with speech-language pathologists to define the delay clearly.
- Diagnosis and Planning: We explain the likely neurological cause, coordinate therapy, and offer long-term developmental follow-up.
We look beyond the speech delay — to understand the child as a whole.
Why Families Trust KidsHeart
- Pediatric Neurologists experienced in language and developmental disorders
- Coordination with speech therapy, psychology, and occupational therapy
- Honest, compassionate explanations — never rushed or dismissive
- Clear planning for both therapy and school readiness
- Available in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Al Ain
Because every child deserves to be understood — even before they find the words.
Dr. Azhar Daoud
Consultant & Prof, Pediatric & Child Neurology
Dr. Imad Yassin
Consultant Pediatrician/ Pediatric Neurologist – FRCPCH(UK) | Facharzt, FAMAP, Pediatric Neurology Cert (Austria)
Worried About Your Child’s Delayed Speech? Let’s Understand What’s Behind It.
If your child isn’t speaking as expected — or you sense something more — we’re here to help clarify and support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We help clarify that. Some children are late bloomers, while others have underlying neurological reasons.
Many children improve significantly with early therapy — especially when the cause is identified early.
No. Imaging is only done if the history or exam suggests a concern.
No. Autism is one of many possible causes. We assess carefully to avoid assumptions.
If your child is behind, it’s better to evaluate early. “Wait and see” can delay the help they may need.