Speech therapy for toddlers in Perth and Bunbury
Nurturing early communication skills
With early childhood being such a vital period for language development, speech therapy for toddlers can make all the difference in helping children find their voice. Your toddler is learning and absorbing so much every day, and communication is a big part of that journey. But if they’re struggling to express themselves, it can be frustrating for both them and you.
That’s where we can help. At LifeLift, we understand the unique needs of toddlers and provide NDIS-approved speech therapy that’s fun, engaging, and tailored to their development.
Unique considerations for toddlers in speech therapy
The evidence is clear – addressing speech and language issues during the toddler years can prevent a range of lifelong issues, from academic to social. Studies also show that toddlers who receive early speech therapy are more likely to develop age-appropriate language skills by the time they reach preschool, improving their literacy, confidence, and social abilities.
Signs your toddler may benefit from speech therapy
Identifying early signs of speech and language difficulties can lead to more effective interventions. Consider consulting a speech therapist if your toddler is showing:
- Delayed speech milestones – Limited vocabulary for their age or difficulty forming simple sentences.
- Pronunciation challenges – Difficulty articulating certain sounds, making speech hard to understand.
- Comprehension issues – Struggling to follow simple instructions or understand questions.
- Social interaction difficulties – Avoiding eye contact, limited engagement in play, or challenges in interacting with peers.
- Frustration when communicating – Frequent tantrums, pointing instead of speaking, or becoming easily upset when not understood.
Normal speech development for toddlers
Every child develops at their own pace, but there are broad milestones that can help parents understand what typical speech and language development looks like. While some toddlers may start speaking earlier or later than others, here’s a general guide to what you can expect:
- By 12 months: Your toddler may start using simple words like “mama” or “dada” and respond to their name. They should also begin to understand basic words and gestures, such as waving “bye-bye.”
- By 18 months: Toddlers typically have a vocabulary of around 20 words and start combining words to form simple requests like “more milk.” They should also be able to follow simple instructions, like “Come here.”
- By 2 years: Your toddler may have a vocabulary of 50+ words and start forming two-word phrases such as “want toy” or “big dog.” They will also begin to understand and follow more complex directions.
- By 3 years: Most toddlers can form short sentences, ask simple questions, and have conversations with familiar adults. Their speech should be clear enough that parents and caregivers understand most of what they say.
Every child is different, and not meeting these milestones is not automatically a cause for concern. However, if you’re worried about your child’s development, or they’re showing frustration when trying to communicate, our speech therapy for toddlers in Perth and Bunbury could help support their progress and build confidence in their abilities.
What to expect in a speech therapy session for toddlers
At LifeLift, we deliver individual, person-centred care. Our speech therapy sessions for toddlers are customised based on the child’s specific needs, but typically include:
1. Initial assessment – Our therapist will evaluate the child’s speech, language, and communication abilities through play-based activities and parent discussions.
2. Interactive exercises – We’ll use a mix of age-appropriate games, toys, songs, and storytelling to encourage speech and language development.
3. Parental coaching – Parents are given practical exercises and techniques to reinforce progress at home.
4. Progress tracking – The therapist monitors improvements and adjusts therapy plans as needed.
Therapy is always tailored to your child’s pace, ensuring that they feel comfortable and motivated to engage. Because learning’s much easier when it doesn’t feel like a chore.
Why choose LifeLift for toddler speech therapy?
At LifeLift, we specialise in NDIS-approved speech therapy tailored to young children. We understand the unique challenges that come with toddler communication development and offer a holistic, child-friendly approach that focuses on early intervention, confidence-building, and long-term growth.
- Experienced pediatric speech therapists – Our caring team has years of experience helping toddlers develop communication skills in a fun and engaging way.
- Mobile and flexible sessions – We bring therapy to your home, daycare, or school, so your child gets support in an environment they feel comfortable in.
- Family-centered approach – We work closely with parents and caregivers, providing guidance and strategies to continue progress at home.
Our mission is to help toddlers develop strong communication skills that set them up for success in school and beyond.
FAQ on speech therapy for toddlers
● What’s the ideal age to start speech therapy for my child?
Early intervention is absolutely key. If you notice signs of speech or language delays, it’s advisable to consult a speech therapist as soon as you can.
● How can I support my toddler’s speech development at home?
Engage in regular conversations, read together, and model clear speech. Incorporating play-based learning can also be really useful.
● What should I expect during a speech therapy session for my toddler?
Sessions often involve interactive activities designed to encourage speech and language development, with active parental involvement helping to reinforce learning.
● How long does speech therapy typically last for toddlers?
The duration varies based on individual needs. Consistent attendance and practice can lead to more rapid progress.
● Are LifeLift’s speech therapy services covered by the NDIS?
Yes, we’re an NDIS-approved provider, and eligible services can be funded under the scheme.
Start your toddler’s speech therapy journey with LifeLift
Early identification and intervention are key to supporting your toddler’s communication development. If you have any concerns about your toddler’s speech and language skills, reach out to LifeLift and we’ll get you booked into our speech therapy services in Perth and Bunbury.
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