Do you think there may be a problem with how they are learning to speak?

One of the most common questions we are asked about on a regular basis is speech development. Many parents can worry that their child may not be learning as fast as others and may have a concern that their child requires extra help and guidance. So, with this in mind we spoke to one of our experts about speech development and what you can do to help your child. Most of the questions asked were answered during this interview.

For this interview we spoke to Speech and Language therapist Lisa Haughton about children's communication skills. Within this interview we asked Lisa, who has over 11 years experience of working within the NHS - How we can help our little ones speech develop and whether dummies and watching television can hinder development.

The questions we asked Lisa are listed below:-

When would you expect to hear a baby start to make babbling noises?

You can communicate with a baby from day one. Babies love to see facial expressions and babbling starts very early.

How can we help them communicate?

Talk nonsense and tell them what you're doing. They like to hear the pattern of languages.

When would you expect to hear first words?

It's probably fair to say that around 12 months you might start to see very early words like Mummy, Daddy. They may point to a drink and say "ahh ahh". The speech sounds are the icing on the cake really. By two children begin to put little words together. Understanding language is far more important than expressive language so if you feel your child can understand you then that is good.

What should you do if you suspect a problem with your child's communication?

Don't sit at home worrying, just get a referral from your GP or health visitor.

Can television be detrimental to speech development?

Television has its place as long as it's not constantly on. The problem is if you have constant noise children can de-tune. So switch it on for a specific programme and then switch it off.

Do dummies hinder speech?

They can damage speech development if they're in constantly. It has its place but as soon as your baby doesn't need it whip it out. Between 12/24 months I would be trying to get it off them.