What does the term "language delay" imply about children's language development?

The term "language delay" refers specifically to situations where a child begins to develop their language skills later than their peers. This means that while other children may be reaching certain language milestones, such as speaking their first words or forming simple sentences, a child with a language delay is not achieving these milestones within the expected time frame. It's important to note that a language delay does not imply that the child is incapable of learning language entirely; rather, it indicates a slower progression in their language development compared to typical developmental timelines.

This can result from various factors, including developmental differences, environmental influences, or specific communication disorders. Understanding that language delays signify a lag in the typical development trajectory is crucial for providing the appropriate support and interventions needed to help the child improve their language skills.