What Could Cause A Speech Regression?
It can be alarming for parents and caregivers to hear their child say fewer words than they used to, stop using phrases that they had once mastered, or suddenly struggle to communicate. Speech regression is the loss of previously acquired speech or language skills. Parents and caregivers often have many questions when this happens. Why is this happening? Did we miss something? Will it come back? Is it our fault?
Speech regression can feel sudden and scary; however, it almost never happens for no apparent reason. It often stems from a range of developmental, medical, environmental, or emotional factors. Understanding these possible causes is a key first step in deciding how to respond and recognizing when you should seek support from a doctor or speech therapist.
Developmental Differences and Neurodivergence
One of the most commonly discussed causes of speech regression is neurodevelopmental differences, particularly autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Research shows that approximately 20-30% of children later diagnosed with autism experience a period of speech regression. This regression is typically between 15 and 30 months of age. During this time, the child may lose words, stop responding to their name, or reduce social communication.
It is important to note that a speech regression does not automatically mean autism. However, when speech regression is paired with changes in social engagement, play skills, or eye contact, a developmental evaluation is strongly recommended.
Hearing Difficulties
Hearing plays a huge role in how children learn to talk and understand language. When a child isn’t hearing sounds clearly or consistently, it can affect how they use speech day to day. They may struggle to pronounce words the way they once did, speak too loudly or too softly, or have trouble putting more complex sentences together because they are missing the sound feedback that they rely on.
Whether frequent ear infections or a bigger hearing issue, may experience speech regression. Hearing loss does not always look obvious. A child may still respond to loud noises or familiar voices, making the issue easier to miss. That’s why hearing screenings are often recommended when speech regression is noted.
Neurological or Medical Events
For some, speech regression can be linked to a neurological or medical change, such as:
- Seizure disorders such as epilepsy
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
- Stroke (Rare, but possible in children)
- Genetic or metabolic conditions
Any sudden or dramatic loss of speech, especially when paired with physical or behavioural changes, should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
Emotional Stress, Trauma, or Major Life Changes
Speech regression is not always caused by physical or developmental causes. Emotional stress, trauma, or major life changes can also play a significant role.
A child may experience a speech regression after events such as:
- Change in family dynamics, such as the birth of a sibling or parent separation
- Moving
- Change in childcare
- Illness or hospitalization
- Exposure to trauma or prolonged stress
Some children temporarily revert to earlier developmental behaviours, including less advanced speech, during times of emotional stress. This does not mean that the skills are gone forever. The child may be focusing their energy on coping and regulation instead of communication. This is especially the case for younger children who are developing their coping skills.
Environmental Changes
Speech development thrives on social interaction. When a child’s language environment changes, speech skills can also be affected. For example:
- Fewer one-on-one conversations due to busy schedules
- Increased screen time is replacing interactive play
- Changes in caregivers or routines
- Prolonged illness limited social interaction
Maintaining and improving language skills requires responsive, back-and-forth communication. Some kids may talk less or rely more on gestures and nonverbal communication when that interaction diminishes. This kind of regression is often gradual and may get better once regular, engaging communication is resumed.
When Development Shifts Focus
Not all speech regression is a sign of a problem. In some children, regression happens during periods of rapid developmental change. For example, a toddler who is learning to walk, problem-solve, or master new skills may temporarily use fewer words. Their brain is busy with these new skills, and language can take a back seat to that.
Speech-language pathologists sometimes refer to this as skill reorganisation rather than a true speech regression. While typically short-lived, it should still be monitored, especially if lost skills do not return within a few weeks.
Illness or Fatigue
An individual's physical well-being has a great impact on communication. When children are frequently sick, overtired, or overall not sleeping well, their speech may decline. Chronic sleep disruption has been linked to reduced attention, memory, and expressive language skills. A child who is exhausted may speak less, use simpler language, or appear less responsive. Once health and sleep improve, speech often rebounds; however, persistent speech regression should still be evaluated.
When to Seek Professional Help
Speech regression of any sort should always be taken seriously; however, it's worth taking note that some cases are only temporary. Evaluating the child as soon as possible will help determine the cause of the regression, whether that be medical, developmental, or environmental. Once the cause is found, it will be easier to create the best action plan moving forward.
Some cases of speech regression are temporary; however, any loss of previously acquired speech skills should be taken seriously. Early evaluation can help identify whether the regression is developmental, medical, or environmental. Once the cause has been identified, a plan can be made regarding the next steps.
Speech-language pathologists are trained to assess speech and language skills and develop a plan to move forward. Collaboration with speech-language pathologists, paediatricians, audiologists, and developmental specialists ensures a well-rounded treatment approach.
Although speech regression can be unsettling, it should be viewed as an indicator rather than a diagnosis on its own. Gaining insight into the possible reasons behind the change helps families respond thoughtfully instead of reacting out of fear.
When a child receives an early assessment, appropriate support, and informed guidance, many are able to recover lost skills and continue developing effective communication skills for years to come. If speech regression is a concern, seeking professional advice as early as possible can have a significant positive impact.
Great Speech is a leader in online speech therapy. We help people of all ages with a variety of speech and communication challenges, including children with speech regression. Book an appointment to get started. The first call is free.