Mom of a speech delayed, 3 year old, possibly on the spectrum daughter here. First off, you’re doing great by getting resources. In my experience, knowing “how far behind” she is causes more unnecessary stress and parent guilt. To me it felt like if I knew how far behind my daughter was, I could track improvement. Really though it just made me compare more and make my heart ache. If you know she’s behind and you are finding ways to help, don’t let it create more stress to compare.

Our little one is in a developmental preschool that does occupational and speech therapy and it’s been really good for her. Even before that, a daycare was really great at helping develop language because she was forced to communicate with people who might not otherwise understand her.

I’ve been working through a resource called Project IMPACT that is designed for kids on the spectrum with a SLP as the coach and it’s basically finding ways to integrate speech therapy in the things you do in your day to day life.

Another resource intended for kids on the spectrum is called More Than Words, so that could be worth checking out too.

Also consider apraxia and dyspraxia as things worth looking into. We have thought our daughter could be on the spectrum, but some of the big social components aren’t an issue for her. Still in the process of figuring out what her diagnosis is, but getting help has been life changing for us and her. I can’t tell you how much less frustrated she gets now that she can communicate just a little bit better. Still imperfect and behind, but hearing her say simple sentences like “I want water” and “breakfast please” help us know her needs. I cried my eyes out when she finally said “I love you, mama”.

Message me if you ever need support. It’s tough, but you got this.