Every child develops at their own pace, but when speech or language skills seem delayed, developmental delay speech therapy can make a world of difference. At Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy in Mission Viejo, Jill Dews, M.A., CCC-SLP, has spent more than two decades helping children strengthen communication skills and reach important milestones. Her compassionate, family-centered approach gives parents the tools and confidence they need to help their children grow.
Developmental delay speech therapy helps children who are slower to talk, understand, or use language by focusing on personalized strategies that build skills through everyday interaction and play.
Understanding Developmental Speech Delays
A speech or language delay means a child is developing communication skills more slowly than expected for their age. Some children might use only a few words, while others may have difficulty forming sentences or following directions. These differences are common, and with the right support, children can make meaningful progress.
At Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy, Jill Dews designs sessions around each child’s abilities, interests, and pace. Her warm, play-based approach helps children feel safe and motivated to communicate. Whether your child is just starting to babble or working on full sentences, therapy provides the structure and encouragement they need to keep moving forward.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Early speech therapy can help shape communication patterns that last a lifetime. During the early years, children’s brains are most adaptable, making this the perfect time to strengthen the pathways responsible for speech and language.
Therapy is not just about talking, it’s about understanding, connecting, and expressing thoughts clearly. Jill uses evidence-based methods recommended by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to help children develop these foundational skills. Early therapy also gives parents practical strategies to use at home, turning ordinary routines like mealtime or storytime into valuable learning opportunities.
Families in Mission Viejo often notice how quickly confidence grows when children begin to understand and be understood. A simple “thank you” or “I want that” can open doors to connection, independence, and joy.
Recognizing the Signs of a Speech or Language Delay
Some children start speaking later than others, but certain signs can suggest it’s time for an evaluation. Early identification helps families begin therapy before frustration or behavioral challenges develop.
Common signs to look for
If you notice any of the following, it may be helpful to schedule a speech and language assessment:
- Limited babbling or no words by 15 to 18 months
- Difficulty combining words by age 2
- Trouble following simple directions
- Speech that is unclear or hard to understand by age 3
- Frustration when trying to communicate
Parents often share that they “just felt something wasn’t clicking.” Trusting that instinct is important. Jill Dews provides gentle, thorough evaluations to determine whether your child would benefit from therapy and what kind of approach will help most.
The Role of Play and Routine in Therapy
Children learn best through meaningful experiences. In Jill’s sessions, therapy feels like play, but each activity is carefully chosen to target specific goals. Games, books, songs, and toys become powerful tools for teaching new sounds, words, and ideas.
Activities might include:
- Naming and describing objects during play
- Singing songs to practice rhythm and repetition
- Reading picture books together to expand vocabulary
- Using pretend play to teach turn-taking and conversation
Because learning continues at home, parents are encouraged to join in and observe. Practicing the same games during daily routines helps strengthen progress and gives children a sense of consistency. Many families practice these skills during neighborhood walks, storytime at the Mission Viejo Library, or playtime at local parks like Oso Viejo Park.
Comparing Different Types of Developmental Support
Speech therapy is one piece of the puzzle in helping children with developmental delays. Some children also benefit from occupational or physical therapy, depending on their needs. Collaboration among professionals ensures that care stays coordinated and focused on the whole child.
| Therapy Type | Main Focus | How It Helps Communication |
| Speech Therapy | Language and speech sounds | Builds understanding, vocabulary, and confidence in expressing needs |
| Occupational Therapy | Fine motor and sensory skills | Supports attention and self-regulation needed for communication |
| Physical Therapy | Gross motor coordination | Improves body awareness and movement patterns that impact speech development |
Jill works closely with other local specialists and educators to create a complete plan for each child, ensuring that progress in one area supports growth in another.
How Parents Can Support Speech Development at Home
Parents play the most important role in their child’s communication journey. Speech therapy gives you tools to create natural learning moments every day. By weaving small changes into routines, you can make a big difference in how your child listens, learns, and responds.
Easy strategies to use at home
Try these family-friendly tips to boost speech and language skills:
- Talk slowly and clearly, giving your child time to answer
- Repeat new words several times in natural conversation
- Describe what you’re doing throughout the day
- Encourage your child to point, gesture, or make sounds to express choices
- Read short books together and pause to let them fill in words
Families around Mission Viejo often find that using these strategies at home builds connection and reduces frustration. The key is consistency, every word, gesture, and shared smile brings your child closer to confident communication.
Progress Looks Different for Every Child
No two children develop on the same timeline. Some may gain new words quickly, while others progress gradually. Jill emphasizes celebrating effort rather than speed. Each session is designed to meet children where they are, using small successes to motivate continued growth.
Parents often share that therapy not only helps their child communicate but also deepens their bond as a family. Moments like a child saying “Mama,” asking a question, or telling a short story can bring incredible joy and pride.
Community connections also matter. Jill encourages families to take advantage of local resources like early learning programs and community playgroups, where children can practice communication in fun, social environments.
Taking the Next Step
If your child’s speech seems delayed or you’re unsure what milestones to expect, it’s never too early to ask for guidance. Jill Dews, M.A., CCC-SLP, has over twenty years of experience helping children in Mission Viejo and surrounding communities find their voices through caring, evidence-based therapy.
At Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy, Jill and her team work closely with families to design individualized therapy plans that fit each child’s needs. Parents are always included in the process, learning how to support communication during daily routines.
Helping your child communicate confidently can transform everyday moments into meaningful connections. To schedule an evaluation or learn more about developmental delay speech therapy in Mission Viejo, contact Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy and take the first step toward clearer communication and brighter confidence.
Let’s Talk Speech and Language Therapy was recently voted “Best Speech Pathologist” in Ladera Ranch California, a fantastic accomplishment. Schedule your consultation today and see why parents love us!