This article was last updated on October 28, 2024. We added a new FAQ section and additional links to answer common questions and share more information about ADHD and speech delays. We aim to keep our content current and relevant so you can access the latest information.
Toddlers naturally have lots of energy. They may run away from you in the grocery store, interrupt conversations, or jump off the furniture. This typical toddler behavior is one reason attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is rarely diagnosed before age 4.
But if your toddler has a speech delay, could ADHD be the cause? Research suggests that a speech delay may be one of the earliest signs in children who are later diagnosed with ADHD, so there is some evidence of a link between the two.
This article explains how ADHD can affect speech development, how to identify signs of an ADHD-related speech delay, and how speech therapy may help your child thrive.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition affecting 11% of children ages 4 to 17. Without support for the ways ADHD affects them, children may have difficulty succeeding at school, building relationships, and developing confidence.
The primary symptoms of ADHD include:
- Difficulty focusing on a specific task
- Forgetfulness or memory problems
- Acting without thinking
- Impatience or difficulty waiting for their turn
- Difficulty controlling impulses
- High levels of energy or activity
- Interrupting or speaking at inappropriate times
- Difficulty following instructions
- Fidgeting or squirming while seated
Many of these symptoms are common among toddlers. After all, have you ever met a 2-year-old who didn’t have a short attention span? The key difference is that toddlers without ADHD or another disorder tend to outgrow these behaviors.
It is also important to recognize the strengthsassociated with ADHD. People with ADHD report that the following qualities can benefit them socially, at school, or at work:
- Hyperfocus
- Resilience
- Creativity
- High energy
- Spontaneity and adventurousness
- Strong conversational skills
Free 45-minute consult
Looking for a speech therapist?
Talk through what you are noticing and get clear next steps.
Request a free consult
How ADHD is linked to speech development
ADHD is most often diagnosed around age 6 or 7. At this age, children can typically pay attention for longer periods and focus on tasks when necessary.
However, recent research suggests that a toddler’s speech delaycould be an early warning sign of ADHD. For example, a 2016 study found that children with poor language skills at age 3 were more likely to show symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity at 5 and a half years old. This is only one of many studies linking ADHD to speech and language development difficulties in children.
Many children with ADHD lack the core skills needed for language learning. They may struggle to process information and sustain their focus.
Children learn to speak by memorizing new words, mimicking their caregivers, and listening to sounds around them. With that in mind, it is easy to understand how ADHD may affect speech development.
Many children with ADHD have difficulty with the core skills involved in learning language. They may struggle to pay attention, process information, and maintain focus. As a result, they may quickly fall behind their peers and miss crucial language development milestones.
Can ADHD cause speech delay?
It is not 100% clear whether ADHD can cause a child to have a speech delay. We do know that many children with ADHD also experience speech development issues. More research is needed to understand why these conditions are so closely connected.
As noted above, one theory is that ADHD affects a child’s ability to organize thoughts, stay focused, and memorize new information. This may cause them to learn to speak more slowly or mispronounce words. Children with ADHD may also have trouble following instructions or understanding what others say, making it harder to learn new words.
As a result, children with ADHD may be misunderstood, become frustrated, and speak less often. A toddler may then have fewer conversations with caregivers and peers. Without this kind of language practice, the child could develop a speech delay.
How to identify an ADHD-related speech delay in toddlers
It can be difficult to tell whether a toddler has ADHD or is simply especially energetic. However, the signs of a speech delay may be easier to recognize.
More specifically, studies show that children with ADHD are more likely to have difficulty with expressive language skills. This means a toddler may take longer to say their first words or have trouble expressing themselves verbally, particularly compared with other children their age.
Children with ADHD may also experience receptive speech delays. For example, a toddler may not respond to a simple direction such as “come here” or “wave bye-bye.” Answering questions inappropriately, such as saying “yes” when the correct answer is “no,” may also indicate an ADHD-related receptive speech delay.
Finally, a substantial body of research suggests that children with ADHD may have pragmatic language difficulties. Pragmatic language skills , also called social communication skills, involve a child’s ability to follow the “rules of a conversation.”
For example, a child with ADHD may frequently interrupt the other person or answer before a question is finished. In toddlers, pragmatic language difficulties may include misunderstanding verbal cues or avoiding eye contact.
Related guides
How to support a child with ADHD and speech delay
If you suspect your toddler has a speech delay related to ADHD, speech therapy can help. Begin by scheduling a speech evaluation with a qualified speech-language pathologist, also known as a speech therapist.
During the evaluation, the speech therapist will ask about your child’s language development. They will observe how your child communicates with other people and assess their vocabulary knowledge or understanding of receptive language concepts. If speech therapy is recommended, the therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan to build your child’s communication skills.
You should also tell your pediatrician about your child’s ADHD symptoms. The pediatrician may recommend ADHD testing, occupational therapy, medication, or another treatment plan.
Find a speech therapist for your child
Recognizing the connection between ADHD and speech development may help you identify your child’s symptoms sooner. With an appropriate diagnosis and treatment, your child can gain the tools they need to reach their full potential.
If you are ready to learn more about speech therapy for your toddler, Astrel can match you with a licensed speech-language pathologist who meets your needs. Click here to get started.
Frequently asked questions
How are ADHD and a child’s speech connected?
Research suggests that speech delay can be an early sign of ADHD. Children with ADHD often have difficulty with skills needed for language learning, including attention and focus. As a result, they may fall behind and miss crucial language milestones.
What speech problems may affect children with ADHD?
Children with ADHD are more likely to have difficulty with expressive and receptive language skills. They may take longer to say their first words, struggle to share their thoughts, or find it hard to follow directions. They may also have problems with social interactions.
At what age can a child be diagnosed with ADHD?
Toddlers have lots of energy, which is one reason ADHD is rarely diagnosed before age 4. It is most commonly diagnosed around age 6 or 7.
Can speech therapy help a child with ADHD?
Yes. Speech therapists can treat communication problems related to ADHD. They can also help children with attention or concentration difficulties, including trouble staying organized or paying attention during everyday tasks. You can learn more about speech therapy for ADHD in this article.