Red Flags:

If the child presents with one or more of these red flags, this might indicate a developmental concern, not only a speech and/or language delay.  An immediate referral to the Ottawa Children’s Treatment Centre for a developmental assessment might be required.  Consult the “Where to refer” section on how to do this.

• Limited eye gaze and/or limited shared interest in others
• Repeats exactly what you say rather than responding to questions or comments
• Disinterest in or detachment from other children of same age when playing
• Does not look at you when listening or speaking
• Makes noises or uses gestures to express needs instead of using words or sentences
• May talk but remarks may not be relevant to the conversation
• Repetitive  play or movement behaviours
• Limited sequenced pretend play
• Does not appear to be reaching the appropriate milestones
• Any loss of any social and/or language skills