Not all late talkers have autism. Some kids just take longer to find their words, while others face broader developmental challenges. Knowing the difference matters.
A past client, Jude, taught me this lesson. At first, his parents thought it was only a speech delay. But as we worked together in home-based ABA therapy, it became clear he also had trouble with social cues. That’s when an autism evaluation gave them the answers they needed.
What Is Speech Delay?
A speech delay simply means a child is developing language skills later than expected. Children with speech delay usually follow the typical path of language development, just at a slower pace.
Key characteristics of speech delay:
- Vocabulary develops later than peers.
- Child may use fewer words or shorter sentences for their age.
- Understanding (receptive language) is often stronger than speaking (expressive language).
- Social skills are usually age-appropriate (making eye contact, smiling, playing with others).
Example: A 3-year-old with a speech delay may understand instructions like “get your shoes” but may only be able to say a few words like “mama” or “ball.”
Speech delays can be caused by factors such as hearing issues, oral-motor difficulties, or sometimes just developmental variation.
What Is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. While many children with autism may have speech delays, autism involves more than just language.
Key characteristics of autism:
- Difficulty with social communication (limited eye contact, challenges with back-and-forth conversation).
- Repetitive behaviors (lining up toys, hand flapping, strict routines).
- Limited or intense interests.
- Differences in play (preferring to play alone or in unique ways).
- Language may develop late, but even when speech emerges, children may struggle with using it socially.
Example: A 3-year-old with autism may not only have delayed speech, but also avoid eye contact, not respond to their name, and prefer repetitive play over interacting with others.
The Main Differences Between Autism and Speech Delay
Here’s a simple breakdown to make the distinction clearer:
| Aspect | Speech Delay | Autism |
| Language | Late talking, limited vocabulary | May have late speech, but also struggles with using language socially |
| Understanding | Often understands more than they can say | May not respond to name or understand social cues |
| Social Interaction | Typically engages with others, makes eye contact, plays normally | Limited eye contact, may avoid social play, difficulty with relationships |
| Behavior | Behaves like peers of same age | May show repetitive movements, restricted interests, or sensory sensitivities |
| Cause | Developmental delay, hearing issues, or oral-motor challenges | Neurological differences affecting development |
Why Parents Sometimes Confuse the Two
Because both conditions can involve late talking, it’s easy to see why parents wonder whether their child has autism or just a speech delay. The difference usually shows up in social and behavioral skills.
- If a child only struggles with talking but is otherwise social and engaged — it may be a speech delay.
- If a child struggles with both speech and social communication, along with unique behaviors, autism may be a possibility.
What Should Parents Do If They’re Unsure?
If you’re noticing speech delays or other developmental concerns, the best step is to seek an evaluation. Early support makes a huge difference.
- Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can assess speech and language skills.
- Developmental pediatricians or psychologists can evaluate for autism.
- ABA therapy can support children with autism in building communication, social, and daily living skills.
Remember: an evaluation isn’t a label — it’s a tool to get the right help for your child.
How ABA Therapy Can Help Children with Autism
For children with autism, ABA therapy is one of the most effective treatments. It focuses on teaching communication, social skills, play, and independence step by step.
At Little Champs ABA, we offer personalized ABA therapy across Colorado and Utah, with flexible options to support your child’s unique needs:
- ABA therapy at home – Helping children learn in their most comfortable environment.
- ABA therapy in school – Building skills directly in the classroom setting.
- ABA therapy in daycare – Supporting early learning and social growth.
- Telehealth ABA – Convenient therapy sessions online for busy families.
Whether your child has autism, a speech delay, or both, our team works closely with families to create meaningful progress.
FAQs
1. Can a child have both autism and a speech delay?
Yes. Many children with autism also have speech delays, but the reverse isn’t always true. A child with a speech delay may not have autism.
2. How can parents tell the difference between autism and speech delay at home?
Look beyond speech. If your child makes eye contact, plays socially, and engages with you but is just behind in talking, it may be a speech delay. If social communication is also limited, autism may be a possibility.
3. At what age should I seek help if my child isn’t talking?
If your child isn’t using words by 18 months or not combining words by age 2, it’s a good idea to seek an evaluation. Early support is always better.
Sources:
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8280472/
- https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/speech-delay-vs-autism/
- https://marybarbera.com/speech-delay-vs-autism-recognize-signs-delayed-speech-in-children/
- https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/not-talk.html
- https://health.choc.org/how-can-i-tell-if-my-child-has-a-speech-or-language-delay/